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Survival in the Shadows: Seven Hidden Jews in Hitler's Berlin by Barbara Lovenheim
The remarkable true story of two German Jewish families that survived against all odds while hiding in the heart of the Nazi capital In January 1943, unable to flee Germany, the four members of the Arndt family went underground to avoid deportation to Auschwitz. Ellen Lewinsky and her mother, Charlotte, joined them; a year later, Bruno Gumpel arrived. Hiding in a small factory near Hitler’s bunker, without identification cards or food-ration stamps, they were dependent on German strangers for survival. When Russian soldiers finally rescued the group in April 1945, the families were near death from starvation. But their will to live triumphed and two months later, four of the survivors—Erich Arndt and Ellen Lewinsky, and Ruth Arndt and Bruno Gumpel—reunited in a double wedding ceremony. Survival in the Shadows chronicles the previously untold story of the largest group of German Jews to have survived hiding in Berlin through the final and most deadly years of the Holocaust. Relayed to Barbara Lovenheim by three survivors from the group, the riveting story is a touching portrayal of the bravery of these seven Jews, and a heartfelt acknowledgment of the fortitude and humanity of the compassionate Germans who kept them alive.
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First published January 1, 2002
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 29, 2018
What an compelling and fascinating true story of two German Jewish families that survived against all odds with the help of some remarkable and courageous German people in above all places the city of Berlin during the WWII.
Not even the most despicable tyrant can fully eradicate goodness. Barbara Lovenheim”
I was a little reluctant to read this one when it because available to me on audible, as I have read so many books on the War and the Holocaust but this one seemed to be a little different in that it is the story of seven people outwitting the Nazi's and surviving in hiding for two years. I wanted to learn more about the 50 German heroes that helped them at great risk to their own families.
Extremely well researched and written and a great deal of thought went into writing this book as the author really tries to write an accurate account from the interviews with three of the survivors from the group and while I am sure it is not easy to remember all the details after so many years have passed and the author explains in her introduction how she tries to deliver an honest attempt to write their stories and account as accurately as possible and where she has had to improvise. I also think this book unlike so many other books written about this time in history has a feeling of hope and good about it and is not a a depressing or harrowing read but rather a story that strengthens one's faith in humanity. I think its an important book in that it shows how some of the German people stood up to hitler to proctect their neighbours and friends.
I intended to this one on audible and it is very well narrated but I did have a little difficulty keeping track of all the names of the characters in the story and I believe the hard copy has quite a number of photos which I missed out on and would have helped me make a better connection to the characters and places I was reading about. Having said that it didn't take away from the overall enjoyment of the book.
Not even the most despicable tyrant can fully eradicate goodness. Barbara Lovenheim”
I was a little reluctant to read this one when it because available to me on audible, as I have read so many books on the War and the Holocaust but this one seemed to be a little different in that it is the story of seven people outwitting the Nazi's and surviving in hiding for two years. I wanted to learn more about the 50 German heroes that helped them at great risk to their own families.
Extremely well researched and written and a great deal of thought went into writing this book as the author really tries to write an accurate account from the interviews with three of the survivors from the group and while I am sure it is not easy to remember all the details after so many years have passed and the author explains in her introduction how she tries to deliver an honest attempt to write their stories and account as accurately as possible and where she has had to improvise. I also think this book unlike so many other books written about this time in history has a feeling of hope and good about it and is not a a depressing or harrowing read but rather a story that strengthens one's faith in humanity. I think its an important book in that it shows how some of the German people stood up to hitler to proctect their neighbours and friends.
I intended to this one on audible and it is very well narrated but I did have a little difficulty keeping track of all the names of the characters in the story and I believe the hard copy has quite a number of photos which I missed out on and would have helped me make a better connection to the characters and places I was reading about. Having said that it didn't take away from the overall enjoyment of the book.
March 24, 2015
Disclaimer: ARC via Netgalley.
Lovenheim’s book details the experience of the Arndt family and friends as they survive underground in Berlin during the Second World War. Underground does not mean living sewers or caves; it means existing in Berlin, being hidden by Germans. The not only details the survival of the group of Jews but those who hidden them, though the later life of the rescuers is not fully detailed.
Yet, the book is entertaining and interesting. It isn’t so much the Arndt’s that grab one’s attention but Charlotte Lewinsky (who becomes the mother-in-law of Erich Arndt). This woman sounds like she was totally fearless. Marvel at how she tricks German officers out of good meals in a time of rationing. Additionally, her daughter Ellen and Ruth Arndt commit various dangerous acts, and one wonders at their daring. It is the experience of the women that is more fascinating, even though they could more easily blend in than Erich Arndt and Bruno Gimpel.
Of those in hiding, Dr. Arndt comes across as the one the reader connects least with, and largely this is because the focus is on the children, most likely because they were alive to be interviewed but perhaps too because Arndt had a more stable hiding place than the rest of his family.
The book also deals lightly with the question of morality; the desire to do what is right versus what needs to be done to survive. This manifests not only in the stealing of food but also living arrangements and what to do with a rabid pro-Nazi co-worker.
I particularly enjoyed the essays by various family members at the end of the book.
April 2, 2015
A moving and uplifting true account of German Jews hiding in Berlin during World War II.
Barbara Lovenheim provides a harrowing, but ultimately uplifting account of the Arndt family and friends as they survive underground in Berlin during the Second World War.
The Jews hiding in Berlin were known as die Taucher, the divers, as well as U-Boats. 11,000 Jews went underground in Berlin during the war years of 1939 – 1945. 1400 survived the war.
Lovenheim takes you right into the heart of the family, their relationships and the inevitable strains. Whilst some of the subject matter can be disturbing, the mood is lightened by the sheer chutzpah of some of the Arndt’s especially Charlotte who used to trick German officers into giving her free meals.
Most of these sort of accounts end with the wars end, however this one is all the more powerful for the detail of their life immediately after the war and their personal essays at the end of the book. Equally fascinating are the photos of the family, the sheer ordinariness of the images appears to contradict their survival under extraordinary circumstances.
A great book that not only provides insight into this rarely written about aspect of Holocaust history, but also great detail on life on the German home front, and the immediate aftermath of the war for German civilians too.
Barbara Lovenheim provides a harrowing, but ultimately uplifting account of the Arndt family and friends as they survive underground in Berlin during the Second World War.
The Jews hiding in Berlin were known as die Taucher, the divers, as well as U-Boats. 11,000 Jews went underground in Berlin during the war years of 1939 – 1945. 1400 survived the war.
Lovenheim takes you right into the heart of the family, their relationships and the inevitable strains. Whilst some of the subject matter can be disturbing, the mood is lightened by the sheer chutzpah of some of the Arndt’s especially Charlotte who used to trick German officers into giving her free meals.
Most of these sort of accounts end with the wars end, however this one is all the more powerful for the detail of their life immediately after the war and their personal essays at the end of the book. Equally fascinating are the photos of the family, the sheer ordinariness of the images appears to contradict their survival under extraordinary circumstances.
A great book that not only provides insight into this rarely written about aspect of Holocaust history, but also great detail on life on the German home front, and the immediate aftermath of the war for German civilians too.
April 7, 2015
SURVIVAL IN THE SHADOWS: Seven Jews Hidden In Hitler's Berlin
Author: Barbara Lovenheim
Genre: Non-Fiction, History
Publisher: www.openroadmedia.com
Release Date: March 2, 2015
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
* I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
This is a true account of seven Jewish adults who were hidden by non-Jewish Germans in the heart of Nazi Berlin during the Second World War.
It is too easy for people nowadays to look back upon this bleak time in human history and think that all Germans were evil people who eagerly supported Hitler and his policy of genocide. This is quite simply not true.
Berlin was the heart of Nazi Germany during the second world war and initially had a large Jewish population. During Hitler's rise to power he instituted ever harsher rules and regulations that Jewish citizens were required to follow. Those that refused to follow those rules were arrested and killed or sent to concentration camps. After his power was firmly established all those of the Jewish faith were scheduled to be sent to and exterminated in the concentration camps.
But Hitler and his followers did not take into account the fact that many Germans did not agree with his policies. Some (in fact, many) helped their Jewish friends and neighbors hide from the Third Reich. If these ordinary citizens had been caught aiding and abetting a Jewish person they would have been arrested as traitors to the cause. While fear of punishment was enough to deter some people from offering aid, there were a large number who risked their lives to do what they felt was the right and moral thing to do. These brave people need to be remembered and should be celebrated.
Everyone has read stories such as "The Diary of Anne Frank" that detail the lives of Jewish people in hiding in other occupied countries, it is much rarer to find an account of people being successfully hidden literally under the noses of Hitler and his goon squads. That is what makes this story so unique.
Also, I believe it is necessary to publish as many of these types of stories as possible. It has been many decades since the end of the second world war and survivors of the Holocaust are dying of old age. But these stories must live on.
It is important that the world never forget because those that do not remember (or worse, those who do not learn) from history are doomed to repeat it.
This book also contains a Postscript that informs readers as to the fate of the people mentioned in the book. This helps give the reader a sense of the continuity of life.
I love the fact that this book has a photo gallery. Seeing the pictures of the people in the story make it seem all the more real. The fact that Ruth was able to hide her Star of David "Jude" patch is astonishing. I have seen artist renderings of what the stars looked like, but until now I had never seen an actual patch.
It was also nice to be able to see pictures of the people after the war ended and many years later.
I rate this book as 4 out of 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
To read more of my reviews visit http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @Amieroger
Author: Barbara Lovenheim
Genre: Non-Fiction, History
Publisher: www.openroadmedia.com
Release Date: March 2, 2015
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐
* I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*
This is a true account of seven Jewish adults who were hidden by non-Jewish Germans in the heart of Nazi Berlin during the Second World War.
It is too easy for people nowadays to look back upon this bleak time in human history and think that all Germans were evil people who eagerly supported Hitler and his policy of genocide. This is quite simply not true.
Berlin was the heart of Nazi Germany during the second world war and initially had a large Jewish population. During Hitler's rise to power he instituted ever harsher rules and regulations that Jewish citizens were required to follow. Those that refused to follow those rules were arrested and killed or sent to concentration camps. After his power was firmly established all those of the Jewish faith were scheduled to be sent to and exterminated in the concentration camps.
But Hitler and his followers did not take into account the fact that many Germans did not agree with his policies. Some (in fact, many) helped their Jewish friends and neighbors hide from the Third Reich. If these ordinary citizens had been caught aiding and abetting a Jewish person they would have been arrested as traitors to the cause. While fear of punishment was enough to deter some people from offering aid, there were a large number who risked their lives to do what they felt was the right and moral thing to do. These brave people need to be remembered and should be celebrated.
Everyone has read stories such as "The Diary of Anne Frank" that detail the lives of Jewish people in hiding in other occupied countries, it is much rarer to find an account of people being successfully hidden literally under the noses of Hitler and his goon squads. That is what makes this story so unique.
Also, I believe it is necessary to publish as many of these types of stories as possible. It has been many decades since the end of the second world war and survivors of the Holocaust are dying of old age. But these stories must live on.
It is important that the world never forget because those that do not remember (or worse, those who do not learn) from history are doomed to repeat it.
This book also contains a Postscript that informs readers as to the fate of the people mentioned in the book. This helps give the reader a sense of the continuity of life.
I love the fact that this book has a photo gallery. Seeing the pictures of the people in the story make it seem all the more real. The fact that Ruth was able to hide her Star of David "Jude" patch is astonishing. I have seen artist renderings of what the stars looked like, but until now I had never seen an actual patch.
It was also nice to be able to see pictures of the people after the war ended and many years later.
I rate this book as 4 out of 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐
To read more of my reviews visit http://amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @Amieroger
August 16, 2015
Survival in Shadows: Seven Jews Hidden in Hitler’s Berlin is by Barbara Lovenheim. It is the story of the largest group of Jews who were hidden in Berlin under the very nose of Hitler and the Nazis. Although they lost many members of their families, these seven managed to survive under the most extreme circumstances in Berlin. They could not have done this without the help of many people. It is estimated that at least 50 people helped but many more helped by not saying anything.
Barbara worked with the families in telling their story. She used a variety of books, interviews, testimonies, etc. to verify their stories. The family members were not very excited when she approached them about her idea. They had been interviewed for another book which never materialized. In an attempt to get them to help her, she granted them the right to proof her work to make sure it was as accurate as possible and as close to their remembrances as possible. Barbara did an excellent job of satisfying them.
The seven Jews were Dr. Adrendt, his wife Lina, their son Erich, and their daughter Ruth, Erich’s girlfriend Ellen Lewinsky and her mother Caroline; and Bruno Gumpel, a friend of Erich’s who had lost all of his family. Dr. Adrendt stayed in one place the entire time and continued to practice medicine on the family who were in hiding. Lina and Ruth moved around as needed until they were finally placed at the factory where Erich was working. Lina and Ruth, who was a nurse, worked at a variety of jobs in a variety of places and passed as Aryan. Ellen, who was a seamstress, worked at a variety of places and in a variety of jobs. She soon came to stay nights at the factory with Erich. Her Mother, Caroline, passed as Aryan as she roamed the streets during the day to be out of her hiding places during the day to deceive nosy neighbors until she also came to the factory. Bruno Gumpel was a friend of Erich’s who came to stay at the factory too and fell in love with Ruth and later married her.
Some of the helpers were given the honor at Yad Vashem of being righteous Gentiles. They were the Gehres, Kohlers, Schulzes, Treplows, and Santaellas. Many others helped either voluntarily or through deception.
It is a very interesting book about these men and women who risked their lives to stay alive and to stay together.
Barbara worked with the families in telling their story. She used a variety of books, interviews, testimonies, etc. to verify their stories. The family members were not very excited when she approached them about her idea. They had been interviewed for another book which never materialized. In an attempt to get them to help her, she granted them the right to proof her work to make sure it was as accurate as possible and as close to their remembrances as possible. Barbara did an excellent job of satisfying them.
The seven Jews were Dr. Adrendt, his wife Lina, their son Erich, and their daughter Ruth, Erich’s girlfriend Ellen Lewinsky and her mother Caroline; and Bruno Gumpel, a friend of Erich’s who had lost all of his family. Dr. Adrendt stayed in one place the entire time and continued to practice medicine on the family who were in hiding. Lina and Ruth moved around as needed until they were finally placed at the factory where Erich was working. Lina and Ruth, who was a nurse, worked at a variety of jobs in a variety of places and passed as Aryan. Ellen, who was a seamstress, worked at a variety of places and in a variety of jobs. She soon came to stay nights at the factory with Erich. Her Mother, Caroline, passed as Aryan as she roamed the streets during the day to be out of her hiding places during the day to deceive nosy neighbors until she also came to the factory. Bruno Gumpel was a friend of Erich’s who came to stay at the factory too and fell in love with Ruth and later married her.
Some of the helpers were given the honor at Yad Vashem of being righteous Gentiles. They were the Gehres, Kohlers, Schulzes, Treplows, and Santaellas. Many others helped either voluntarily or through deception.
It is a very interesting book about these men and women who risked their lives to stay alive and to stay together.
March 6, 2015
This is a compelling true story of seven Jews in Berlin during World War II. They are forced to go into hiding and have to trust German strangers for their survival. They face death and starvation daily for over 2 years. This is a story about the strength of the human spirit and the goodness of people in the middle of evil.
October 1, 2015
Gripping.....and true
Wondering, of course as a gentle, would I be a helper? Would I be courageous? This story rightly tells of a time when a government had to be disobeyed. I am grateful for the intrepid Jews and their stories of bravery and persistence.
Wondering, of course as a gentle, would I be a helper? Would I be courageous? This story rightly tells of a time when a government had to be disobeyed. I am grateful for the intrepid Jews and their stories of bravery and persistence.
April 25, 2020
Good book
These people were lucky and able to stay in hiding during this awful time. Life was still hard but they didn't get caught
These people were lucky and able to stay in hiding during this awful time. Life was still hard but they didn't get caught
January 1, 2022
steve is gonna read books 2022 lets go. 1 down 364 to go
August 1, 2022
Great story
Some say I’d like to re-read this book. especially after reading all the information at the end. An amazing story.
Some say I’d like to re-read this book. especially after reading all the information at the end. An amazing story.
June 4, 2024
I've never read a book about a large family unit that survived in hiding during ww2. This was an amazing and unbelievable account of the Ardnt family. So many good people helped save this one family. How they managed to survoce the entire war, in hiding, in Berlin....impossible to believe
October 2, 2021
True story. Unbelievable perseverance, resourcefulness, goodness and bravery
March 3, 2017
A very different perspective on Jews in Germany. This group of Berlin natives managed to go underground with the help of (eventually) several gentiles. They were moved and employed, over a few years, by about 50 different people who knew and kept their secret in spite of the potential harm to themselves and their families. The determination and cool that it took for them to be among the very few survivors in Berlin is amazing. Thoroughly researched with the help of a group of the survivors who migrated to the US.
August 28, 2017
Survival In The Shadows starts off in a confusing manner. Author Barbara Lovenheim tosses out names of individuals so fast that it's hard to keep everyone straight. It was only when I reached the end of the book that I realized there was a list of both those who hid and those who helped hide. On the contents page in the front of the book, click on or turn to Dramatis Personae. That list will greatly help any reader who is confused in the beginning of the story. The Jews in hiding were Dr. Arthur Arndt, his wife Lina, his young adult children Ruth and Erich, Erich's fiancé Ellen Lewinsky, her mother Charlotte Lewinsky, and Bruno Gumpel, Erich's friend.
Where they were successfully hiding is what was a bit astounding--Berlin. They also went out in public, got jobs, went to movies, went to the opera, and even went to an SS party. They did not all do this as a group, mind you, but individuals did what they had to do to physically survive and to keep from dying of boredom. Everyone was living in various places and some had to move again and again. The Arndts and Lewinskys "disappeared" in January 1943, and came out of hiding for good in April 1945. Over 50 non-Jews helped them survive, most of them Germans, and over 20 of those were listed under Dramatis Personae.
Besides having to watch out for the Nazis during those two years and three month, starvation and bombs dropped by the Allies were constant threats. There was a lot of stress, sadness and death in this book, but it was not overwhelming, and the violence was not usually described in a graphic manner. There was also humor at times, particularly where Charlotte Lewinsky was concerned. She was the one making the greatest effort not to expire from dreariness.
The book ends with postscripts telling what happened to everyone after the war, a 35 item bibliography, and 43 pictures taken before, during and after the war. In the beginning of the book, in the introduction, Ms. Lovenheim also did a bit of interesting speculation as to why the "Arndt-Lewinsky-Gumpel group" was the "largest known group to have survived as a unit" in Berlin. In addition, she mentioned throughout the story the Hospital Of The Jewish Community, which was allowed to continue operating in Berlin during World War II. That would obviously be an interesting subject to read more about, to further learn how Jews survived the war right under the Führer's nose.
(Note: A free e-copy of this book was provided to me by NetGalley and the author or publisher.)
Where they were successfully hiding is what was a bit astounding--Berlin. They also went out in public, got jobs, went to movies, went to the opera, and even went to an SS party. They did not all do this as a group, mind you, but individuals did what they had to do to physically survive and to keep from dying of boredom. Everyone was living in various places and some had to move again and again. The Arndts and Lewinskys "disappeared" in January 1943, and came out of hiding for good in April 1945. Over 50 non-Jews helped them survive, most of them Germans, and over 20 of those were listed under Dramatis Personae.
Besides having to watch out for the Nazis during those two years and three month, starvation and bombs dropped by the Allies were constant threats. There was a lot of stress, sadness and death in this book, but it was not overwhelming, and the violence was not usually described in a graphic manner. There was also humor at times, particularly where Charlotte Lewinsky was concerned. She was the one making the greatest effort not to expire from dreariness.
The book ends with postscripts telling what happened to everyone after the war, a 35 item bibliography, and 43 pictures taken before, during and after the war. In the beginning of the book, in the introduction, Ms. Lovenheim also did a bit of interesting speculation as to why the "Arndt-Lewinsky-Gumpel group" was the "largest known group to have survived as a unit" in Berlin. In addition, she mentioned throughout the story the Hospital Of The Jewish Community, which was allowed to continue operating in Berlin during World War II. That would obviously be an interesting subject to read more about, to further learn how Jews survived the war right under the Führer's nose.
(Note: A free e-copy of this book was provided to me by NetGalley and the author or publisher.)
June 23, 2015
This is probably the only Holocaust book with a happy ending. Seven people, some of them related, two engaged couples, hide from the Nazis in Berlin during some of the worst selection periods. Some courageous moments, as when one of them impersonates an SS officer and saves several lives; another when two Gentile-looking women are treated to dinner by SS officers. They have nothing to eat except watery barley soup and fake coffee. Their survival and ultimate success come from their ability to stay together and stay in touch when they got separated. Their courage and resourcefulness is admirable. Once, two of them stay with an avowed Nazi woman who is so dumb she believes they are secret officers of the SS and can't reveal their location or names.
A very heartening book and one that shows there were some Righteous Gentiles among the German populace. An incredible story.
A very heartening book and one that shows there were some Righteous Gentiles among the German populace. An incredible story.
November 24, 2017
Fascinating and extremely well written
-Very absorbing book of a group of Jews who were hidden away within Berlin during the time of the Holocaust. The author does a tremendous job in keeping the stories of these survivors, who were just a few of many thousands, very clear and she was able to convey the fear, the hunger as well as those isolated happier times that these survivors experienced.
-Where there are many stories of Jews who survived the concentration camps, there were also many who hid under the noses of SS within Germany itself. The courage of the German citizens, and the self sacrifice they exhibited in the face of Nazi threats against anyone found harboring Jews, is nothing short of heroic.
-The author follows the family of Dr. Arthur Arndt, a well liked family doctor who treated both Jew and Gentile alike. Because of his giving nature, his patients were appalled from what he was going to have to endure when Jews were being sent to the camps. He faked his death and went into hiding along with his wife, Lina, and two grown children, Erich and Ruth. Eric's girlfriend, Ellen Lewinsky and her mother Charlotte, along with Eric's friend Bruno, made up what ended out to be 7 in the group. Besides being looked after with the help of over 100 kind people, they also did what they could to help each other.
-The resilience of this group, and also so many others that survived under these conditions is something that must be marveled at. In addition, the number of people who both actively helped at the risk of their lives, and those that helped in other ways, by leaving extra food for the group, shows that German citizenry did act against the Nazis, and that those that joined the Nazis in their oppressive acts, had no excuse.
-The fact that all of the seven not only survived, but were able to have families and stayed close to one another, was a feel good ending.
-Very absorbing book of a group of Jews who were hidden away within Berlin during the time of the Holocaust. The author does a tremendous job in keeping the stories of these survivors, who were just a few of many thousands, very clear and she was able to convey the fear, the hunger as well as those isolated happier times that these survivors experienced.
-Where there are many stories of Jews who survived the concentration camps, there were also many who hid under the noses of SS within Germany itself. The courage of the German citizens, and the self sacrifice they exhibited in the face of Nazi threats against anyone found harboring Jews, is nothing short of heroic.
-The author follows the family of Dr. Arthur Arndt, a well liked family doctor who treated both Jew and Gentile alike. Because of his giving nature, his patients were appalled from what he was going to have to endure when Jews were being sent to the camps. He faked his death and went into hiding along with his wife, Lina, and two grown children, Erich and Ruth. Eric's girlfriend, Ellen Lewinsky and her mother Charlotte, along with Eric's friend Bruno, made up what ended out to be 7 in the group. Besides being looked after with the help of over 100 kind people, they also did what they could to help each other.
-The resilience of this group, and also so many others that survived under these conditions is something that must be marveled at. In addition, the number of people who both actively helped at the risk of their lives, and those that helped in other ways, by leaving extra food for the group, shows that German citizenry did act against the Nazis, and that those that joined the Nazis in their oppressive acts, had no excuse.
-The fact that all of the seven not only survived, but were able to have families and stayed close to one another, was a feel good ending.
May 2, 2022
This is a remarkable book about amazing people. It chronicles with compassion and historical accuracy the lives of seven Jews from January, 1943-April, 1945 who were forced into hiding in Hitler’s Berlin.
There is the Arndt family of four, headed by a well respected Jewish physician with his wife and children, Erich and Ruth, who are joined by son Erich’s fiancee Ellen and her mother Charlotte and a year later by a friend of Erich, Bruno. The story chronicles their intense struggle to find different hiding places, to remain hidden and to secure enough food in a war-ravaged dictatorship. They were totally dependent on the courage and compassion of non-Jewish Germans who risked their lives to provide them lodging, safety and food.
The story of this largest group of Germans to survive the Holocaust in hiding was related to the author by three survivors who make their way to America after the war. By that time Erich and Ellen are married as are Ruth and Bruno, and the author finishes their post war story providing a “happy ending” to years of terror.
The cruelty of Hitler’s deadly war against the Jews is woven into the survivors’ story as relatives of those in hiding are sent to death in concentration camps. The brutality of the regime and the terror it engendered are palpable as their harrowing story unfolds.
Once liberated by the Russians’ arrival in Berlin, a time of danger and uncertainty, the group begins to rebuild their lives determined not to be defeated by the past. They all eventually make it to America, find work (Dr. Arndt in a Jewish nursing home) and have children. They strive conscientiously to help those back in Germany to help those who saved their lives.
This is truly an interesting and heartwarming story from the past that illumines the strength, creativity and generosity of the human spirit during unimaginable times.
There is the Arndt family of four, headed by a well respected Jewish physician with his wife and children, Erich and Ruth, who are joined by son Erich’s fiancee Ellen and her mother Charlotte and a year later by a friend of Erich, Bruno. The story chronicles their intense struggle to find different hiding places, to remain hidden and to secure enough food in a war-ravaged dictatorship. They were totally dependent on the courage and compassion of non-Jewish Germans who risked their lives to provide them lodging, safety and food.
The story of this largest group of Germans to survive the Holocaust in hiding was related to the author by three survivors who make their way to America after the war. By that time Erich and Ellen are married as are Ruth and Bruno, and the author finishes their post war story providing a “happy ending” to years of terror.
The cruelty of Hitler’s deadly war against the Jews is woven into the survivors’ story as relatives of those in hiding are sent to death in concentration camps. The brutality of the regime and the terror it engendered are palpable as their harrowing story unfolds.
Once liberated by the Russians’ arrival in Berlin, a time of danger and uncertainty, the group begins to rebuild their lives determined not to be defeated by the past. They all eventually make it to America, find work (Dr. Arndt in a Jewish nursing home) and have children. They strive conscientiously to help those back in Germany to help those who saved their lives.
This is truly an interesting and heartwarming story from the past that illumines the strength, creativity and generosity of the human spirit during unimaginable times.
July 10, 2022
Incredible Story of Family Survival in WWII Berlin
The author tells a fascinating and heartwarming true tale of a Jewish family ( some became so after the war through marriage) who were sheltered and protected by up to 50 non-Jews. This is the largest group known to have survived in Berlin. They were brave, resourceful, cocky and daring at times, seemingly never losing hope in spite of many near misses from neighbors, traitors, Gestapo, bullets, and bombs. For the most part, a very happy ending. Well written. I only wish the cast of characters, which was confusing at times, and the photos had been at the beginning of the book.
The author tells a fascinating and heartwarming true tale of a Jewish family ( some became so after the war through marriage) who were sheltered and protected by up to 50 non-Jews. This is the largest group known to have survived in Berlin. They were brave, resourceful, cocky and daring at times, seemingly never losing hope in spite of many near misses from neighbors, traitors, Gestapo, bullets, and bombs. For the most part, a very happy ending. Well written. I only wish the cast of characters, which was confusing at times, and the photos had been at the beginning of the book.
September 7, 2022
Reading this was like listening to a group of people reminisce about their lives, which was the whole point of how it is written. I learned some things that were new and feel like there must be stories after extensive research. For instance, I didn't realize how widely the Jews travelled when they escaped Germany, such as resettling in places such as Peru, China and India. There must be some stories there. I also had never heard about the preferred status of Jews following the end of the war and was happy to hear that they were recognized as having suffered especially much and how reparations were attempted.
November 28, 2024
History should always be remembered
Good story. Heart wrenching, anxiety, a few laughs. This is the first biography I've read about Jews in Berlin. It is definitely a different perspective than other Jews in hiding. Basically, they were hiding in plain sight. Unlike other Jews in hiding, they were able to move around, have jobs & did a great job at fooling the SS. The story is well told. It felt like I was right there with them. It also shows that not all Germans were Nazis and were willing to help hide & provide food for the group. Humanity was at its worst, but there were many bright spots shining through.
Good story. Heart wrenching, anxiety, a few laughs. This is the first biography I've read about Jews in Berlin. It is definitely a different perspective than other Jews in hiding. Basically, they were hiding in plain sight. Unlike other Jews in hiding, they were able to move around, have jobs & did a great job at fooling the SS. The story is well told. It felt like I was right there with them. It also shows that not all Germans were Nazis and were willing to help hide & provide food for the group. Humanity was at its worst, but there were many bright spots shining through.
August 25, 2019
Great Survivor story
It was interesting to read a book about that Shoah that wasn't from someone who survived the camps, but who lived through Berlin right through the war. I haven't read much, yet, on how the war hurt the German people who weren't Nazi/Hitler supporters. I've never really considered their struggle because I only think about the concentration camp victims. And that there were few Jewish people, let alone whole Jewish families that survived in hiding, their's is a great story. Thank you for the book!
It was interesting to read a book about that Shoah that wasn't from someone who survived the camps, but who lived through Berlin right through the war. I haven't read much, yet, on how the war hurt the German people who weren't Nazi/Hitler supporters. I've never really considered their struggle because I only think about the concentration camp victims. And that there were few Jewish people, let alone whole Jewish families that survived in hiding, their's is a great story. Thank you for the book!
January 21, 2020
I had high expectations for this book, as I typically find myself engrossed in nearly every book about Holocaust survivors. Yet, the writer tends to spin off on tangents so frequently I quickly lost the story line. Quite candidly, I did not actually finish the book, which is something I rarely do. But after a little more than halfway I could no longer invest the time. I only gave it three stars because where the storyline was found, the characters are compelling and the narrative well crafted. I would not recommend the book but do hope that others enjoy it.
February 14, 2020
Regardless of how many books I read relating to WWII or the Holocaust, I am always struck anew with horror at the depths to which humans can descend. And I am equally struck by the ability of human beings to survive the unsurvivable. This story is made more powerful by the fact that it is not historical fiction, but in fact, a true story.
Someone once asked me, “Why do you want to read books with so much suffering? Don’t they make you sad?” Yes, they do. And they make me angry too. But I hope they ultimately make me more compassionate and empathic to my fellow man.
Someone once asked me, “Why do you want to read books with so much suffering? Don’t they make you sad?” Yes, they do. And they make me angry too. But I hope they ultimately make me more compassionate and empathic to my fellow man.
February 3, 2019
Survival in the Shadows: Seven Jews Hidden in Hitler's Berlin by Barbara Lovenheim
I just couldn't put this book down. I got so involved with the characters in this story. How brave they were to be able to go out at night or during the day to get food or get help. They family, though they were not together, survived by encouraging each other. The Germans, who helped them survive, took on a great responsibility for providing good and shelter to the family. Truly a good read.
I just couldn't put this book down. I got so involved with the characters in this story. How brave they were to be able to go out at night or during the day to get food or get help. They family, though they were not together, survived by encouraging each other. The Germans, who helped them survive, took on a great responsibility for providing good and shelter to the family. Truly a good read.
May 16, 2019
A look into how a few Jews actually survived in Berlin before the end of the war. This was an awesome and informative read. Written very well—through the eyes of 7 survivors. The authors’s epilogue offers very good food for thought about the rationale for the Protecters taking the risks they did—and why some non-Jews would not help. The book also offers into the insight of the minds of the Jews and what got them through emotionally. I will read again!!
July 25, 2020
I highly recommend this book. It does an excellent job of presenting the human side of the struggle for survival during the Holocaust. The family in this book survived through the help of others and their own risk taking. The episode of how the women were able to get German soldiers to buy them meals alone is worth reading this book for. But there are many other accounts of the events of their survival that shows how everyone has a different experience.
December 29, 2020
I had not yet read a story of Jews hiding in Berlin. I learned how the Russians treated the Jews once they had taken Berlin. This is worth a read simply to honor the survivors, their helpers, and those who did not survive It is a remarkable story of luck, perseverance, and kindness. It does seem that the narrative becomes more of a timeline about halfway in--we lose any sense of emotional states and physical conditions and risks in the rush to the end of the war.
October 17, 2021
The true account of the largest group of Jews that went underground in Berlin and survived World War Two and the Germans who helped them.
I found the story informative and interesting. It's impossible to transmit the feelings they had during this time in history when they knew they were hunted and hated for being Jewish. It does highlight the extents humans will go to survive. It also shows what a difference someone can make in someone else's life by helping in whatever way they can.
I found the story informative and interesting. It's impossible to transmit the feelings they had during this time in history when they knew they were hunted and hated for being Jewish. It does highlight the extents humans will go to survive. It also shows what a difference someone can make in someone else's life by helping in whatever way they can.
March 23, 2025
This is an amazing story of survival under horrific conditions that went on for years. It is an important reminder of how ugly fascism is and how fast it develops, especially relevant to today. The lives of the people involved, those in hiding and those helping to hide them, show the best of the human spirit. It is important not to forget history and to know the truths of history, however ugly they are.
September 2, 2017
Hidden Jews surviving the War
This book is a learning experience about survival in a way quite different from Anne Frank. These 7 Jews survived through hard work,incredible helpers, and their own desire to survive. Highly recommend this book, especially in schools after reading The Diary of Anne Frank. Gives another perspective of the period.
This book is a learning experience about survival in a way quite different from Anne Frank. These 7 Jews survived through hard work,incredible helpers, and their own desire to survive. Highly recommend this book, especially in schools after reading The Diary of Anne Frank. Gives another perspective of the period.
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