Holocaust Lumber

by Allan Rosenfeld

This Second Edition features five new stories, new cover art, and an Afterword by the author.

Growing up on a lumberyard just outside Toronto, Allan knew that he was different from most other kids. But it wasn't the stacks of wood or the hard work of helping out around the yard that defined him – it was his role as the oldest child of two Holocaust survivors. Always and above all else, Allan knew that his parents had suffered through terrible atrocities, and that he couldn't cause them any more pain, under any circumstances.

Holocaust Lumber is a collection of 30 short stories that capture the complexities and humanity of his parents. Told with unflinching honesty, these stories capture a world of lumber and love, a setting of sweetness and survival, a nightmare of guilt, and the lighthearted, absurd moments that are part of all families.

Kindle Edition

Published December 11, 2015

Reviews

[Peggy Walt · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a story - these vignettes by the son of Holocaust survivors are surprising, moving, funny and sad, all at the same time. Another valuable glimpse into the lives of immigrants to Canada following the Shoah. So glad to have had the chance to read this one.

[Alexia D'Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holocaust Lumber is one of the most heartfelt stories I have read, comprising memories of the author’s childhood. I have gained some insight into the mindsets of Holocaust survivors who immigrate to Canada to start a new life. I also loved how the author adores his father and wrote the book in his memory. Besides the story itself, I admire the level of descriptiveness in the story, as I truly gained an understanding of the setting, the character’s struggles and the overall of his society. Overall, I loved this book, and I highly suggest you read it. Holocaust Lumber is one of my favourite books and deserves so many readers. 

[Lucy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hi Allan,

I just wanted to write to you and let you know what a privilege it was to read your book.

As each chapter unfolded, I was given insight into the generational complexities and repercussions of such a traumatic, historical event. Within each short story, the way you wrote enabled me to grasp the slightest understanding of how your parents' experiences filtered down into every aspect of your life. I was brought to tears many times as I empathized with you and with your parents and how the experience of the Holocaust robbed you all of many of the beautiful normalices of family, friends and freedom. I truly admire your family’s strength, courage and tenacity in the face of adversity.

So thank you Allan, for writing something so sincere and meaningful.

[Amara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holocaust Lumber is an authentic experience of Rosenfeld’s inherited holocaust survival. The struggles his parents passed down to him reminded me of my own history, post-slavery. Reading Rosenfeld’s experiences helped me to realize that survival is truly passed down through generations, and the children of survivors feel it intensely. I appreciate the descriptiveness and honesty brought out in his achievements and disappointments. They evoked joyful feelings, anxiety, and grief in me. I hope more audiences will enjoy the eye-opening journey Holocaust Lumber gives. I definitely recommend this read!

[Neil · Rating 5 out of 5]

A moving and poignant coming of age story.A vital history of loving but holocaust impacted survival parents, and a son's relationship that represents his own ongoing though resolving personal holocaust drama, through love, devotion, and patience.
I highly recommend this evocative, and moving book.

[Kelly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting read on the life of a young boy whose parents had survived the Holocaust and moved to Toronto, Canada to establish a life. Ups and downs of being Jewish in the 50's.

[Doreen Young]

It was an interesting read. Gives a different perspective of how life was preceived after the Holocaust by the survivors.