I Shall Live: Surviving the Holocaust Against All Odds

Henry Orenstein
Beaufort Books (2010)
ISBN 9780825305979
Reviewed by Carol Hoyer, PhD, for Reader Views (12/10)

 

As a Psychologist, I still cannot fathom all that the Jewish people encountered- it still boggles my mind. And yet, at the same time, I can’t understand after a book like this has come out with so much detail of personal experiences, that people can deny that this ever happened. How can anyone relate a story like this without it being true?

Mr. Orenstein has provided such a detailed account of what happened before, during and after the Nazi terror readers will be amazed at how creative he and his family became to remain alive. Through these detailed descriptions of thoughts, feelings and the environment, you can feel you are there with him during this horrific adventure.

Imagine being hated by people who don’t even know you or what you are about. Imagine living in conditions that no one should ever have to live in; being beaten or tortured on a daily basis and starving to death. Would you eat meat from a dead horse? What would you be willing to trade to have a pinch more of bread? How would you react if your mother and father or any family member or friend were stripped naked and shot to death before your very eyes?

Orenstein’s account of what happened prior to all this terror added more facts to this history of this Nazi reign. He has a very excellent memory- how could he not? There are pictures and documents he has provided to add to the authenticity of actual events.

There are many history books out there that discuss the Nazi reign, but I believe that books like this really give you an up and close view of what really happened. This book will make you cry, laugh at the cleverness and be disappointed in how we as humans have chosen to treat others who don’t meet our standards.

I am a firm believer in everyone knowing the facts – if you choose to ignore them that is your choice. It did happen and there are many survivors who can testify to this as demonstrated in “I Shall Live: Surviving the Holocaust Against All Odds.”

Make comment on weblog

FTC Disclosure