A book that stimulates the mind and the heart !

Saying good things about Hartmann, I feel too insignificant in life to say. But he is more than a Doctor; he's one of the most insightful social observers we have today and he's funny, too. I don't care if Hartmann does think I'm wonderful, brilliant, and handsome; I'm going to put the country's interest above mine and say: 'Turn off the tube and read this book!'

I liked this book very much, and what especially moved me was that it wasn't written by some professional writer, but by a grandfather, like mine. This book was also very personal. At some times this book was very sad, however, it wasn't as sad as some other Holocaust books that I've read. I would like to recommend this book to someone who wants to read about Holocaust, but doesn't feel like buying tissues.

This book is perhaps the best kept secret of it's genra, yet classifing this book under just one subject matter would be rather difficult. Many subject matters are discussed hear, mostly centering around conflicts between, Christianity, and Judiasm. In between these 2 largest religions of the world are funny anectdotes, personal experiences of a Holocaust survivor, life with a handicapp in family, more funny anecdotes, charm, wit, lightheartedness, things from Jesus to Cathy Lee Gifford, from being a doctor, to being a human, to most importantly FORGIVE. Believe me the list could go on, and on and on. If you are a deep thinker, this book is for you. If you are in the medical feild, this book is for you. If you are a philospher, this book is for you. If you are interested in the Holocaust from the perspective of a surviver, this book is for you. If you are a rabbi or priest, athiest or humanist, this book is DEFINATLY for you. If you are a compasionate person, this book is for your heart. If you are an intellectual, this book if for your mind. This wonderful book is written in a conversational mode. Dr. Hartman is speaking to you, the reader, such as a Grampa in a cushiony recliner, telling stories, and sharing wisdom with his grandchild. This is how this book makes you feel. The simple yet witty language is so acessable that you don't actually feel that you are reading it, but that it is being read to you. A breaze of book, windy and easy to read, yet deep and effective as a low gust of wind. I am sure if you read this book, it will affect you. A book that stimulates the mind and the heart.

This is a wonderful book about Dr. Hartmann and his life and tribulations. He talks about his life in Germany, his life in Syracuse NY and about his family and friends. One can empathise with his pains and be lifted up by his accomplishments.

...although I may be biased because I don't agree theoretically with some of ego psychology's key concepts (what's a conflict-free ego sphere? Why all the hydraulics of "neutralization"? Why the huge emphasis on the ego to begin with?). Rather technical.