Tomorrow Will Be Better: A True Story of Love and One Family's Triumph over the Horrors of World War II

by Zdena Kapral

Tells the story of Zdena Kapral's struggle during the German attacks and Nazi horror, the postwar Soviet takeover, and the partition of the Indian subcontinent

Genres: History, Nonfiction, War

432 pages, Hardcover

First published December 1, 1990

Reviews

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read many books about Holocaust victims, and although most are true, and can be proven, I am discovering some people trying to cash in on false biographies. Please beware of the imposters. This book is far different in that it fully covers a Czechoslovakia family's ordeal during the German invasion, and the Natzi horrors. Each day is explained what exactly happened and I was horrified, but amazed that this wonderful family could hang on. Her husband was imprisoned and was within three days of being shipped to a concentration camp. How she accomplished saving him is truly inspiring. If not for her knowing the right people and a lot of bravery on her part, he would have perished along with thousands of Czechoslovkian's. The descriptions of the Natzi barbarism made me feel as if I was there witnessing what her family went through, and how they survived. Then came the Red Army, and another take over of their country. I have heard of the atrocities of the Russians during the war, but I was shocked and cannot begin to tell you what people went through with these soldiers. It is explained the limited mental capacities many Russians had as there were a criminal regiment using their farm while fighting the Germans, and of course their customs. Most were illiterate and did not even recognize a toilet. My heart ached for the people going through a continuing nightmare. This wonderful family had to leave their country where they had lived with family dating back to the 1500's. This book was so well written, I could see and smell her descriptions of war, of their beautiful farm, and of the continuing fear. I wished I could have met this wonderful woman and her family. Please, read this book as it will leave a forever lasing impression. This story is incredible.

[Andrea Fuller · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my most favorite books.

[Doll · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished reading Tomorrow Will Be Better and I know that I will be thinking of this book for a long time. It is the true story of a family in Czechoslovakia during WWII and the many hardships they suffered. The real story is one of love, love for country, family and husband. It is beautifully written. Zdena Kapral grew up in a large loving family on a farm that had been in her family for centuries. She marries Alex and they have a wonderful
life together traveling and making many friends. That is until the Nazis invade there country. Though they are also suffering they are willing to help wherever they are able. When Alex gets arrested and get thrown into prison you can feel all the fears that Zdena feels.

There are so many close calls it can be nerve wrecking. You have to keep reminding yourself that she will make it so you can get through some pages. But her overall concern is for her husband and family and does all she has to do to keep them safe.

It is the best true life book I have ever read and recommend it highly. It reminds us of all we have and take for granted.

[Raquel (Silver Valkyrie Reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really appreciate the slice of history from a new perspective in this book, as I knew almost nothing of the details about how WWII affected Czechoslovakia. Highly recommended for history buffs and those interested the situations of immigrants and refugees, as the rise of Communism sent this family fleeing their country.

Definitely not recommended for younger children, as you get a fair number of details on the horrors of war and the atrocities committed by Russian soldiers, even though it's told in a matter of fact, mostly non-graphic way.

[Connie Connally · Rating 4 out of 5]

A powerful and informative account of how a Czech family survived Nazi violence, defected as communism came in, lived in India during upheaval and civil war, moved to Australia and finally to the U.S. I had never read or heard personal accounts of what Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia was like, so this was an eye-opening book.

[Dustin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think more people should read books that tell the stories of WWII. This was a moving account of the Kapral family. I am thankful I read it.

[Susan Cobb]

This is a very moving book. I suggest that you read this book.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

The rich didn't have it any easier than the poor during the Holocaust and this biography proves it. Mr. Kapral was a genius...there's no other way to put it. If not for the love and courage of his wife, the world would have suffered another great loss on top of the millions upon millions already exterminated. This book is well worth your time. When you have finished it, take the time to Google their names to see the other great things they accomplished.

[Rayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, magnificently written, true life adventure. Filled with tenderness and love of life and family which are what sustained the author through unimaginable nightmare times. You live her days and nights with her, the wonderful and the hideous, and finally emerge to hope for better life ahead. Brilliant book.

[Aunt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good. True. But difficult because it is filled with the horrors of war.

[Katie Talbott · Rating 5 out of 5]

My sister (who is an avid reader of all things non fiction) highly recommended this book, and I am glad Mrs Kapral took the time to write down their personal family experience. It's pretty amazing.

A great eye witness of the WW2 atrocities that were happening in Czechoslovakia. The author is a wonderful story teller, and it reads like a novel. There are a few horrific things that happened (I remember one rape scene), but they are told tactfully, sharing the horror and calling evil, evil, but not filling your mind with lingering imagery. While reading you can't deny that God had his hand of protection on this family.

I highly recommend everyone get a copy for your bookshelf.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this book because it's a true story and covers fascinating points in history in various countries. But...this is a slow read.