ONE OF THE FEW BOOKS WHERE THE READER MERGES INTO THE AUTHOR.

In 1939 Adolph Hitler and Joseph Stalin signed a non-aggression pact and secretly agreed to divide Poland. This was the event that enabled Germany to invade Poland without fear of Soviet interference. Fifteen days after the German invasion, the Red Army attacked Poland from the east. This historical event is the background to the true story related in From Nazi Inferno To Soviet Hell. Here revealed is an aspect of the World War II Jewish experience that is a formerly obscure feature of the corruption, uncertainty, and constant danger of life under the Stalin regime. It is also an enduring testimonial to the human spirit, ingenuity, and will to survive. From Nazi Inferno To Soviet Hell is an important and much appreciated contribution to the 20th history archives of the Jewish experience, the Nazi holocaust, and Soviet oppression.

This is an excellent book to read about the life of Casimir Pulaski who was a hero in the Revolutionary War. Pulaski was from Poland, yet came over to America to help fight against England. There is a monument and a fort named in his honor in Georgia. Best read by 4th graders and older. Middle School students would enjoy the book and read it easily. The cover of book offers a nice visual for early elementary students during a study of Pulaski's life.

This is an amazing book that integrates photos and text very successfully. This is not just a photo book, nor just a wonderful story about the miraculous revival of the Jewish community in Poland. The author's personal journey, as the son of two Polish-Jewish Holocaust survivors is just as intriguing and extremely well-written. I appreciate his open-minded approach and ironic self doubt. I was especially moved by the chapters about the old Jewish man living near Tarnow, and the 'Jewish' priest in Lublin. The sections where the author takes us back to his American childhood were also especially charming and enlightening. The black and white photographs are well-placed throughout and add an extra level of understanding to this contemporary narrative. A must for all those interested in Judaism, the Holocaust, and what it means to create an identity in the wake of tragedy.

Also recommended: Helen Epstein--'Where She Came From' Thane Rosenbaum--'Second Hand Smoke' Nathan Englander--'For the Relief of Unbearable Urges'