Foreshadowing is used to give readers clues as to the outcome of a certain plot or character arc. In The Postcard, the author uses foreshadowing to alert readers to which characters in Book 1 will die as a result of the Holocaust. The author interjects, through Lélia and the protagonist, to demonstrate the exact moments where the family could have made different choices that would have delivered them to safety.

There are many reasons to utilize foreshadowing in a historical fiction novel. First, readers will be aware of the Holocaust and its horrible effects on the lives of Jewish families across France. The overarching plot is, of course, centered around WWII, and the family is not expected to survive intact.

Similarly, tension is created by intentionally alerting readers to the coming demise of key characters. This tension allows readers to connect emotionally with the characters, knowing ever moment of levity and beauty will soon be dashed. This most human of empathies, the understanding that life is short and all beautiful moments eventually fade, allows readers to view the family with closeness.