Justus van Maurik 
Papieren Kinderen 
Novellen en schetsen

Justus van Maurik’s ‘Papieren Kinderen’ is a poignant collection of short stories that delve into the lives of Dutch working-class children in the 19th century. The book is written in a realistic and descriptive style, painting vivid pictures of the struggles and joys of these young protagonists. Van Maurik’s attention to detail and social commentary make this work a valuable piece of literature within the Dutch literary context of the time. Justus van Maurik, a prolific Dutch writer and social critic, was known for his keen observations of everyday life. His own experiences growing up in poverty likely inspired him to shed light on the hardships faced by marginalized groups, as seen in ‘Papieren Kinderen’. Van Maurik’s commitment to portraying the realities of the working class makes this collection both relatable and thought-provoking. I recommend ‘Papieren Kinderen’ to readers interested in historical fiction and social realism. Van Maurik’s stories offer a glimpse into a bygone era while addressing timeless themes of poverty, resilience, and the human experience.