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The Last Ride : Journey to Auschwitz-Birkenau
In "The Last A Journey Through Auschwitz," the author takes readers on a profound journey into one of history's darkest chapters. This compelling narrative combines historical insight with personal reflection, offering a deeply moving account of the atrocities committed within the walls of Auschwitz and the enduring lessons it imparts.
The book begins with the author's emotional decision to visit Auschwitz, driven by a deep-seated need to bear witness to the Holocaust. As the journey unfolds, readers are immersed in the chilling reality of Auschwitz, from the haunting remains of the crematoria to the silent echoes of the victims' voices captured in photographs.
Through detailed descriptions and poignant reflections, the author explores the vastness and eerie silence of Birkenau, the brutal conditions endured by the prisoners, and the harrowing experiments conducted there. Each chapter is enriched with specific stories of survival and resistance, highlighting the incredible resilience and bravery of those who defied the horrors of the camp.
The narrative also delves into the immediate aftermath of the war, documenting the efforts to preserve Auschwitz as a historical site and the significance of memorialization. The author emphasizes the importance of remembrance, connecting the past to contemporary issues, and urging readers to draw lessons from Auschwitz to combat hatred, discrimination, and indifference in today's world.
"The Last Ride" is more than just a historical account; it is a call to action. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths, engage in difficult conversations, and foster a culture of empathy and respect for human dignity. Through this powerful journey, the author inspires a commitment to building a future where the lessons of Auschwitz guide us towards a more compassionate and just world.
Join the author on this transformative journey through Auschwitz, and discover the enduring impact of its lessons on our shared humanity.
The book begins with the author's emotional decision to visit Auschwitz, driven by a deep-seated need to bear witness to the Holocaust. As the journey unfolds, readers are immersed in the chilling reality of Auschwitz, from the haunting remains of the crematoria to the silent echoes of the victims' voices captured in photographs.
Through detailed descriptions and poignant reflections, the author explores the vastness and eerie silence of Birkenau, the brutal conditions endured by the prisoners, and the harrowing experiments conducted there. Each chapter is enriched with specific stories of survival and resistance, highlighting the incredible resilience and bravery of those who defied the horrors of the camp.
The narrative also delves into the immediate aftermath of the war, documenting the efforts to preserve Auschwitz as a historical site and the significance of memorialization. The author emphasizes the importance of remembrance, connecting the past to contemporary issues, and urging readers to draw lessons from Auschwitz to combat hatred, discrimination, and indifference in today's world.
"The Last Ride" is more than just a historical account; it is a call to action. It challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths, engage in difficult conversations, and foster a culture of empathy and respect for human dignity. Through this powerful journey, the author inspires a commitment to building a future where the lessons of Auschwitz guide us towards a more compassionate and just world.
Join the author on this transformative journey through Auschwitz, and discover the enduring impact of its lessons on our shared humanity.
148 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 22, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
March 1, 2025
Today, January 27, 2025 is Holocaust Memorial Day, and the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration camp. A perfect reason for me to once again share my review of this book.
“The memory of Auschwitz is not just a relic of the past, it is a living warning, a perpetual reminder that the seeds of such cruelty can take root if left unchecked.”
Every time I venture into a novel about WWII, I open sensitive feelings about my own personal history as a person born into the Jewish faith. Although I am no longer a practicing Jew, I am a deeply spiritual person. I am also culturally connected to my background, and value what this has brought to my life.
Years ago, I went to a conference in Washington D.C. with some of my students. On a side trip with them, we visited the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. At the entrance there is a plaque which shares a statement made by Martin Niemoller. He was a Lutheran Minister and early Nazi supporter who was later imprisoned for opposing Hitler’s regime. This statement immediately grabs visitor’s attention:
“First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me.”
I remember just standing in front of those words for a few minutes with my students. And, then asking each of them how it made them feel. The words that tumbled from each of our mouths that morning, along with the tears, gave us an indication of what we were in for before we even entered the doors.
For us, being there, the experience was emotionally compelling and heart-wrenching. But beautiful, too. Because it was more than just an educational experience. This museum was a stand against antisemitism. A truth of the Holocaust. A sharing of victims’ and survivors’ powerful stories.
This visit added to the many stories I heard from my oldest son’s late grandparents who actually escaped the Nazis from their birth place of Holland during WWII. And, my own late grandmother who escaped her home in Russia, and my late grandfather who escaped his home in Poland. It may have been a different war for them, but it was hatred towards the Jews and other groups that was the familiar story. And, what did everyone eventually become? Immigrants. Who found a new home in the United States that provided comfort and safety from repression, oppression and hate. Supposedly.
My students and I appreciated the learning experiences we gained from going to the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, especially about the dangers of unchecked hatred. And, it was something we would hope that enough people would understand that this situation of vast hatred – of humans against humans can’t happen again. And yet, cruelty, and prejudice, and racism, and hatred toward fellow humans still exists all these years later…for what reason?
I also appreciate that the author’s parents and grandparents experience during the 1947 India-Pakistan partition most likely contributed to his deep sensitivity and interest for taking this journey and writing this book.
So, when the author asked me to read his story, I was hesitant at first, because I didn’t know if I could re-live the story, even if it was just him visiting the monument of Auschwitz-Birknau. But I relented, because I wanted to know what he thought, and why this trip was important to him.
The author does a phenomenal job of sharing history lessons of the lead-up to Auschwitz. Which showcases the build-up of hate and antisemitism “long before 1940.” He is obviously well-researched, thoughtful and heart-felt in his presentation of the facts. And, even if we have been down this road before, we can’t help but be interested in reading about this historical journey. The authors words flow effortlessly and soulfully.
The author also intersperses the story with pictures and information about the meaning behind them. And, what it was like for him to be on this journey was so deftly expressed and meaningful to read.
“My heart was pounding, a mix of anxiety and anticipation swirling within me as I prepared to step into one of history’s most distressing periods.”
I could feel his trepidation. Even if I hadn’t gone on that physical tour, the tour through his words, took me back in time with the author. I felt his anxiousness. I was appreciative of the author’s way of sharing his experience. Readers will feel like they are walking through history with the author, as well. He is our faithful and thoughtful tour guide, sharing the stories of the many individuals who once resided in such an oppressive place and time in history.
The chapters share an irrefutable history for readers to learn more detailed and important information, of what occurred during, and after the war. What is particularly appealing, is Chapter 11 which focuses on “Lessons for Today.” This book would be particularly beneficial as a resource to libraries and schools.
There is so much to be gained from this skillfully crafted story. Especially on what we can do about not letting something like this time in history be repeated ever again, anywhere in the world.
Consider what the author shares here…
“Hatred, as we’ve seen from Auschwitz, doesn’t pop up overnight, it starts with indifference. Our commitment to fighting it should go beyond just opposing big acts of discrimination, it’s also about breaking down the subtle biases that exist in our everyday lives. This involves self-reflection and a willingness to challenge our own prejudices. It also means fostering environments where open dialogue and mutual respect are encouraged.”
So…
What will it take for us to stop the hate towards one another?
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.
“The memory of Auschwitz is not just a relic of the past, it is a living warning, a perpetual reminder that the seeds of such cruelty can take root if left unchecked.”
Every time I venture into a novel about WWII, I open sensitive feelings about my own personal history as a person born into the Jewish faith. Although I am no longer a practicing Jew, I am a deeply spiritual person. I am also culturally connected to my background, and value what this has brought to my life.
Years ago, I went to a conference in Washington D.C. with some of my students. On a side trip with them, we visited the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. At the entrance there is a plaque which shares a statement made by Martin Niemoller. He was a Lutheran Minister and early Nazi supporter who was later imprisoned for opposing Hitler’s regime. This statement immediately grabs visitor’s attention:
“First they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a socialist.
Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out –
Because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me.”
I remember just standing in front of those words for a few minutes with my students. And, then asking each of them how it made them feel. The words that tumbled from each of our mouths that morning, along with the tears, gave us an indication of what we were in for before we even entered the doors.
For us, being there, the experience was emotionally compelling and heart-wrenching. But beautiful, too. Because it was more than just an educational experience. This museum was a stand against antisemitism. A truth of the Holocaust. A sharing of victims’ and survivors’ powerful stories.
This visit added to the many stories I heard from my oldest son’s late grandparents who actually escaped the Nazis from their birth place of Holland during WWII. And, my own late grandmother who escaped her home in Russia, and my late grandfather who escaped his home in Poland. It may have been a different war for them, but it was hatred towards the Jews and other groups that was the familiar story. And, what did everyone eventually become? Immigrants. Who found a new home in the United States that provided comfort and safety from repression, oppression and hate. Supposedly.
My students and I appreciated the learning experiences we gained from going to the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, especially about the dangers of unchecked hatred. And, it was something we would hope that enough people would understand that this situation of vast hatred – of humans against humans can’t happen again. And yet, cruelty, and prejudice, and racism, and hatred toward fellow humans still exists all these years later…for what reason?
I also appreciate that the author’s parents and grandparents experience during the 1947 India-Pakistan partition most likely contributed to his deep sensitivity and interest for taking this journey and writing this book.
So, when the author asked me to read his story, I was hesitant at first, because I didn’t know if I could re-live the story, even if it was just him visiting the monument of Auschwitz-Birknau. But I relented, because I wanted to know what he thought, and why this trip was important to him.
The author does a phenomenal job of sharing history lessons of the lead-up to Auschwitz. Which showcases the build-up of hate and antisemitism “long before 1940.” He is obviously well-researched, thoughtful and heart-felt in his presentation of the facts. And, even if we have been down this road before, we can’t help but be interested in reading about this historical journey. The authors words flow effortlessly and soulfully.
The author also intersperses the story with pictures and information about the meaning behind them. And, what it was like for him to be on this journey was so deftly expressed and meaningful to read.
“My heart was pounding, a mix of anxiety and anticipation swirling within me as I prepared to step into one of history’s most distressing periods.”
I could feel his trepidation. Even if I hadn’t gone on that physical tour, the tour through his words, took me back in time with the author. I felt his anxiousness. I was appreciative of the author’s way of sharing his experience. Readers will feel like they are walking through history with the author, as well. He is our faithful and thoughtful tour guide, sharing the stories of the many individuals who once resided in such an oppressive place and time in history.
The chapters share an irrefutable history for readers to learn more detailed and important information, of what occurred during, and after the war. What is particularly appealing, is Chapter 11 which focuses on “Lessons for Today.” This book would be particularly beneficial as a resource to libraries and schools.
There is so much to be gained from this skillfully crafted story. Especially on what we can do about not letting something like this time in history be repeated ever again, anywhere in the world.
Consider what the author shares here…
“Hatred, as we’ve seen from Auschwitz, doesn’t pop up overnight, it starts with indifference. Our commitment to fighting it should go beyond just opposing big acts of discrimination, it’s also about breaking down the subtle biases that exist in our everyday lives. This involves self-reflection and a willingness to challenge our own prejudices. It also means fostering environments where open dialogue and mutual respect are encouraged.”
So…
What will it take for us to stop the hate towards one another?
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.
May 8, 2025
4+ impactful stars!
A memoir following one man’s journey through the one of history’s most harrowing and horrifying sites — Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Author, Manit Dani, takes the reader on a personal pilgrimage alongside him to visit the remains of what is known as one of the darkest times in history. Through the authors impactful prose, the reader feels the heavy, haunting, dark, palpable atmosphere of every step he takes through the devastating concentration camp site. From the infamous entrance gate, to the half demolished crematoriums, the author shares his visual perspective, thoughts and feelings. At only 148 pages, this book packs quite the punch.
I felt strongly connected to the author as I read this book. His writing gripped me from the start. It is an engrossing, chilling, highly atmospheric read that I will never forget.
There are several photos included with descriptions of each. I found these added power to the story and gave an even more impactful tribute to this time in history. The author includes explanations and details to provide helpful and informative background on each photo and experience. As I reviewed these photos alongside the emotion-stirring prose, I thought that this book would be an excellent high school resource. The writing and presentation is smooth, concise and powerfully conveys the heaviness and importance of this time without bombarding the reader with too much information. It is written in a way that young adults will be able to connect to. It’s detailed enough to fully bring to life the atrocities of the past, yet not too bogged down that students would get lost in the facts.
My one tiny critique is that while I was thoroughly invested and connected to the writing, I did find some of the descriptions and symbolism repetitive.
Overall, this was a powerful, educational, inspiring book that will surely impact every reader. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a finished copy in exchange for my honest review!
A memoir following one man’s journey through the one of history’s most harrowing and horrifying sites — Auschwitz-Birkenau.
Author, Manit Dani, takes the reader on a personal pilgrimage alongside him to visit the remains of what is known as one of the darkest times in history. Through the authors impactful prose, the reader feels the heavy, haunting, dark, palpable atmosphere of every step he takes through the devastating concentration camp site. From the infamous entrance gate, to the half demolished crematoriums, the author shares his visual perspective, thoughts and feelings. At only 148 pages, this book packs quite the punch.
I felt strongly connected to the author as I read this book. His writing gripped me from the start. It is an engrossing, chilling, highly atmospheric read that I will never forget.
There are several photos included with descriptions of each. I found these added power to the story and gave an even more impactful tribute to this time in history. The author includes explanations and details to provide helpful and informative background on each photo and experience. As I reviewed these photos alongside the emotion-stirring prose, I thought that this book would be an excellent high school resource. The writing and presentation is smooth, concise and powerfully conveys the heaviness and importance of this time without bombarding the reader with too much information. It is written in a way that young adults will be able to connect to. It’s detailed enough to fully bring to life the atrocities of the past, yet not too bogged down that students would get lost in the facts.
My one tiny critique is that while I was thoroughly invested and connected to the writing, I did find some of the descriptions and symbolism repetitive.
Overall, this was a powerful, educational, inspiring book that will surely impact every reader. I highly recommend it!
Thank you to the author for gifting me a finished copy in exchange for my honest review!
May 25, 2025
The Last Ride: Journey to Auschwitz-Birkenau by Manit Dani Is a Non-Fiction book that is deep with personal reflection. The book includes the authors and experiences as he walked through it. He included photos. It was so deeply written that I felt the authors emotions and saw things through his eyes. This is by far the best Non-Fiction book I have read based off of the atrocities that took place at Auschwitz-Birkenau. Thank you Manit Dani for sending me this book to read and review. I highly recommend!
July 13, 2025
This is not a literary masterpiece. However, it is a profoundly emotional exposé of a visit to the horrific place that is a symbol of a dark time in the history of humanity. The detailed descriptions give life to the many Holocaust stories I have read.
March 23, 2025
I give 5 stars to this author for writing this book and for its goal of taking the reader on an emotional journey with him, rather than simply a factual one. My main reason for giving it 3 stars overall is that, unfortunately, the writing is repetitive and at times wanders too far away from facts.
Even so, there are beautiful passages, as well as fascinating photographs and a helpful timeline and bibliography in the back. Despite my criticism, I do want to be clear that I'm very glad I read this book. It reminds the reader forthrightly and vividly that remembrance of the holocaust has to be active, not passive, if we are collectively to create a future that celebrates the worth and dignity of every individual.
Even so, there are beautiful passages, as well as fascinating photographs and a helpful timeline and bibliography in the back. Despite my criticism, I do want to be clear that I'm very glad I read this book. It reminds the reader forthrightly and vividly that remembrance of the holocaust has to be active, not passive, if we are collectively to create a future that celebrates the worth and dignity of every individual.
February 4, 2025
The Last Ride: Journey to Auschwitz-Birkenau is a genuine, honest and gut-wrenching novel in which the author reflects on one of the darkest times in world history as he questions and looks for truth and understanding in something that is seemingly impossible to truly comprehend.
In this book, the author reflects upon his trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau, one of the most well-known sites of atrocious crimes against humanity committed during WWII. As he recounts his experience, he combines his personal thoughts and emotions when faced with these sights and sounds with an extensive and well researched historical account of the camp and its innerworkings.
The author provides a history of the camp, from its beginnings as a Polish Military base to the site of mass murder, torture and pure evil as one of the most prominent Nazi death camps during WWII. A place where the use of the word hell to describe it, seems like an understatement.
The use of pictures throughout the book brought a whole other dimension to the novel. Some people visualize by reading words. Others learn and process by seeing. But for written and visual learners alike, the words and photos in this book bring the reader face to face with history and they are forced to encounter the reality of this hell on earth.
I recently visited Mauthausen concentration camp, so I was able to personally connect with some of the thoughts and questions the author expressed. I also found it extremely interesting to see the similarities and differences between the two camps. One thing I appreciated when I visited Mauthausen was hearing the stories the typical person would never generally hear. I could see that present in this novel as the author recounted such stories, including insight into Josef Mengele and the horrific experiments he conducted on people in the camp, the metal sign at the entrance of the camp that went missing, the couple that fell in love in the camp, Block 24...the list goes on and on.
Despite all the horrors and atrocities, the author also took time to reflect upon goodness of people who tried to help the Jews and other prisoners as well as highlighting the strength and courage of some of the many survivors who have shared their stories with the world.
The was a very well written, thought provoking and educational work. I found myself holding on to every word, trying to absorb all of the information, but also feeling all of the emotion. This was not an easy journey for the author or the reader, but it was a deeply personal and important one. As time passes and this generation begins to fade, it is imperative that the memory of what took place never does!
Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book for review. It is one that I have a deep connection to and will always have a special place on my bookshelf.
In this book, the author reflects upon his trip to Auschwitz-Birkenau, one of the most well-known sites of atrocious crimes against humanity committed during WWII. As he recounts his experience, he combines his personal thoughts and emotions when faced with these sights and sounds with an extensive and well researched historical account of the camp and its innerworkings.
The author provides a history of the camp, from its beginnings as a Polish Military base to the site of mass murder, torture and pure evil as one of the most prominent Nazi death camps during WWII. A place where the use of the word hell to describe it, seems like an understatement.
The use of pictures throughout the book brought a whole other dimension to the novel. Some people visualize by reading words. Others learn and process by seeing. But for written and visual learners alike, the words and photos in this book bring the reader face to face with history and they are forced to encounter the reality of this hell on earth.
I recently visited Mauthausen concentration camp, so I was able to personally connect with some of the thoughts and questions the author expressed. I also found it extremely interesting to see the similarities and differences between the two camps. One thing I appreciated when I visited Mauthausen was hearing the stories the typical person would never generally hear. I could see that present in this novel as the author recounted such stories, including insight into Josef Mengele and the horrific experiments he conducted on people in the camp, the metal sign at the entrance of the camp that went missing, the couple that fell in love in the camp, Block 24...the list goes on and on.
Despite all the horrors and atrocities, the author also took time to reflect upon goodness of people who tried to help the Jews and other prisoners as well as highlighting the strength and courage of some of the many survivors who have shared their stories with the world.
The was a very well written, thought provoking and educational work. I found myself holding on to every word, trying to absorb all of the information, but also feeling all of the emotion. This was not an easy journey for the author or the reader, but it was a deeply personal and important one. As time passes and this generation begins to fade, it is imperative that the memory of what took place never does!
Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book for review. It is one that I have a deep connection to and will always have a special place on my bookshelf.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews