Totally Booked with Zibby

Catherine Ostler, THE RENOIR GIRLS: A Hidden History of Art, War & Betrayal

July 31, 2026·23 min
Episode Description from the Publisher

The newly minted New York Times bestseller The Renoir Girls by Brit Catherine Ostler tells a hidden story of what really happened to the young girls in Renoir’s famous portraits. As it turns out, they were victims of the Holocaust. How could these high-society children have ended up suffering, one even at Auschwitz? The story digs into government, politics, hatred, antisemitism, art, family, wealth, and class. I adored speaking to Catherine, one of the brightest people I’ve interviewed, and had the pleasure of meeting her in person afterward on the day her book hit “the list.” Huge thanks to Plum Sykes for the introduction. ** Want more? Become a part of my community! Sign up for Zibby's Highlights, which includes a free weekly newsletter, event livestreams, most anticipated book lists, personal essays, and a new essay platform with stories from all of you about what chapters you're in (inspired by my upcoming book Between Chapters: How I Started Over, Took Some Chances, and Found the Plot, 9/22/26). And follow me on Instagram @zibbyowens. But really, keep listening here. If you love my show, please tell a friend! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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