I have always been intrigued by the events surrounding WWll; and, specifically, the Holocaust. Yet, they are events that are difficult for the human mind to wrap around. I was walking through the main library in Ogden, a few weeks ago, when I came across this book: Surviving Hitler. It is written by Andrea Warren.
The word “survivor” really struck me on the title of this book. I had to read about this unforgettable true story of Jack Mandelbaum, who survived the concentration prison camps dominated by Adolf Hitler. I wanted to know his story and how he came out a free man. I wanted to learn about his life and the obstacles he faced and how he triumphed over them.
Sometimes I really enjoy reading a book meant for a younger audience even though this particular book definitely has some dismal and very gruesome perspectives of the Nazi death camps. There are many black and white photos throughout the book—some very hard to look at. While reading, Surviving Hitler, I was filled with sorrow for the many people whose lives were lost and the many who had to suffer.
However, Surviving Hitler is also filled with great imagery too. Award-winning author, Andrea Warren, begins the introduction page by telling us about the main character, “Jack.” We learn he lives a very happy childhood in the country of Poland.
“Until he was twelve, Jack Mandelbaum assumed his life would always be a carefree adventure. He lived with his father, mother, older sister, and younger brother in beautiful Gdynia, Poland, on the shores of the Baltic Sea.”
We learn all about the events that led up to the captivity of Jack and his family. And prior to them becoming prisoners we learn that Jack’s mother is fiercely struggling.
“They did not know how deeply she suffered on the inside,” Jack said. “She was trying to be strong for my brother and me, but she was terribly worried about my father, my sister, and the rest of her family scattered throughout Poland.”
In the end, you’ll learn how Jack survives. How he conquers death in the concentration camps and how he gains friendship in unlikely ways.
I learned so much from this book and discussed it with my family afterward. I came to realize that I am hungry for more knowledge about WWll and the Holocaust. I had two grandfathers who served in WWll—one in the Pacific and one in England.
If you want to read this amazing story of how Jack Mandelbaum survived the Nazi prison camps, pick up Surviving Hitler at your local library. It is worth the read.
