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Love in a Time of Hate: The Story of Magda and André Trocmé and the Village That Said No to the Nazis
Love in a Time of Hate tells the gripping tale of Magda and AndrE TrocmE, the couple that transformed a small town in the mountains of southern France into a place of safety during the Holocaust. At great risk to their own lives, the TrocmEs led efforts in Le Chambon-sur-Lignon to hide more than three thousand Jewish children and adults who were fleeing the Nazis. In this astonishing story of courage, romance, and resistance, learn what prompted AndrE and Magda to risk everything for the sake of strangers who showed up at their door. Building on the story told in Lest Innocent Blood Be Shed, German journalist Hanna Schott portrays a vivid story of resisting evil and sheltering refugees with striking resonance for today.
270 pages, Paperback
First published June 13, 2017
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560 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
March 23, 2017
This is a very good brief biography about two amazing people. Schott introduces them to us by telling about their childhoods, both Magda’s lonely one, and Andre’s rather austere and traumatic one, then their courtship, early married life, and eventual move to Le Chambon. Telling their life stories worked very well. It set the background for their heroic stance during WW2. You could see how the events of WW1, their upbringing, and religious studies helped shape their response.
The style is very engaging almost conversational but avoided sounding like fiction. Nor does it try to delve too deeply into their private thoughts and motives. It’s just a very well written biography. I appreciated the large sections quoted directly from their letters and speeches.
It would have been nice if more time had been spent on their doctrinal beliefs. That was the only point that left me confused. Early in the book, Andre states that the only truly important thing is the Gospel; but in the last part of the book, it seems his focus was more on non-violence and various peace movements than Biblical preaching or teaching. For a biography of a Pastor, it leaves a lot of questions about his beliefs. Were they saved? Did Magda believe in the Biblical God?
I would still recommend it as a very good biography.
I received this as a free ARC from NetGalley and Herald Press. No review was required, but it was my pleasure to write it.
The style is very engaging almost conversational but avoided sounding like fiction. Nor does it try to delve too deeply into their private thoughts and motives. It’s just a very well written biography. I appreciated the large sections quoted directly from their letters and speeches.
It would have been nice if more time had been spent on their doctrinal beliefs. That was the only point that left me confused. Early in the book, Andre states that the only truly important thing is the Gospel; but in the last part of the book, it seems his focus was more on non-violence and various peace movements than Biblical preaching or teaching. For a biography of a Pastor, it leaves a lot of questions about his beliefs. Were they saved? Did Magda believe in the Biblical God?
I would still recommend it as a very good biography.
I received this as a free ARC from NetGalley and Herald Press. No review was required, but it was my pleasure to write it.
April 18, 2017
I was given this book by NetGalley and Herald Press in exchange for my honest review.
When I started reading this book it was not what I expected. I thought it would pick up in the heat of the Holocaust and go from there. However, I enjoyed learning about the childhood Magda and Andre and how they ended up in "The Village That Said No To The Nazis". It pointed out how their faith truly lead them to help everyone that was in need, despite their religious difference. I could not put this book down and read it in a day. By the end of the book I was in tears and I can't remember the last time a book as made me cry.
Religion did play a heavy part in the book but it wasn't overbearing. Andre believed that God would care for him if he did as God wanted him to according to the scriptures. Mostly not to bear false witness, not to harm another person and to help those that are in need. However, he believed that if is was killed. he would go down with his beliefs and that fear would not change him.
There are so many historical connections in the book that support this story and yet it is hard to believe that this happened. There are so many times that Andre could have been killed and he is able to get out of the situation by being honest and holding fast to his beliefs. This is truly an encouraging story about sticking to your beliefs and helping those even if they are not the same as you.
I really feel that this is a book that we all need to read right now with the state of the world. We need to be reminded of what has happened in the past and what will happen again if we allow it. I am also ashamed that I have never heard of Magda and Andre Trocme prior to the book. It has made me want to seek out more information about them and others like them.
When I started reading this book it was not what I expected. I thought it would pick up in the heat of the Holocaust and go from there. However, I enjoyed learning about the childhood Magda and Andre and how they ended up in "The Village That Said No To The Nazis". It pointed out how their faith truly lead them to help everyone that was in need, despite their religious difference. I could not put this book down and read it in a day. By the end of the book I was in tears and I can't remember the last time a book as made me cry.
Religion did play a heavy part in the book but it wasn't overbearing. Andre believed that God would care for him if he did as God wanted him to according to the scriptures. Mostly not to bear false witness, not to harm another person and to help those that are in need. However, he believed that if is was killed. he would go down with his beliefs and that fear would not change him.
There are so many historical connections in the book that support this story and yet it is hard to believe that this happened. There are so many times that Andre could have been killed and he is able to get out of the situation by being honest and holding fast to his beliefs. This is truly an encouraging story about sticking to your beliefs and helping those even if they are not the same as you.
I really feel that this is a book that we all need to read right now with the state of the world. We need to be reminded of what has happened in the past and what will happen again if we allow it. I am also ashamed that I have never heard of Magda and Andre Trocme prior to the book. It has made me want to seek out more information about them and others like them.
June 9, 2017
**I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.**
Introduction
Love in a Time of Hate is the fascinating story of Andre and Magda Trocme. It is divided into six chronological parts, starting with the childhood of Magda (Part I), the childhood of Andre (Part II), young adulthood/marriage/early ministry of the Trocmes (Part III), the early days of the Trocme's ministry in Le Chambon before the Nazi invasion (Part IV), their ministry, pacifism, and involvement with the underground resistance during the Vichy government (Part V), and their final days as France was liberated and their ministry spread across the globe (Part VI).
The story
Although I was eager to get to the meat of the Trocme's work during World War II, I was pleasantly surprised by Parts I-III. As is true for most of us, the individual upbringing of Magda and Andre was crucial to shaping their personal beliefs later in life. Magda's childhood was strict, motherless, and fraught with inner spiritual turmoil all played out in northern Italy. In contrast, Andre's childhood was one of privilege and strict Protestantism in northern France, although his mother also died when he was ten. By the time they met in the U.S., Andre had been called into ministry as a Reformed Pastor, and Magda dreamed of becoming a social worker.
These roles complimented each other later as they ministered to the farming communities and desperate refugees in Southern France. Their ministry began in northern France, but family health issues took them to southern France, despite the distrust of the French Reformed church. Andre frequently butted heads with the church leadership due to his pacifist beliefs, which he had developed while serving in the military. He was passionate about pacifism and tried to influence his congregations, to the annoyance of the underground resistance movement during the War. Even after the war, both Magda and Andre traveled the world spreading the message of peace and pacifism. Andre died after complications from a surgery, but Magda continued his work until her death a decade later.
The most fascinating parts of the book detail the Trocme's courageous work hiding and moving Jewish refugees during World War II. Jewish children in particular found refuge on the high plateau of Le Chambon. Thousands of children and sometimes entire families filtered through, receiving care and education at the school founded by the Trocmes - Ecole Nouvelle Cevenole - which was the only school of its kind in the entire region. Andre and his ministerial staff were imprisoned for their work, but were released mere days before the prison at which they were interred was closed and the prisoners sent to their deaths in Poland. Andre eventually had to go into hiding as the Germans had put a bounty on his head. He narrowly escaped being caught at one point, and credited his escape to an incident with his son and God's timing. Le Chambon was ultimately liberated and Andre was able to return to his family, but not before they suffered several tragic losses.
Literary analysis
This book was well written and thoroughly researched. I did find numerous grammatical and typographical errors that may have been due to its translation (the author is German). I believe, however, that these would be easily corrected with one more quick editorial review. In no way did any of the errors detract from the story.
The language is concise but engaging. I was just as interested reading the early biographical information as I was engrossed by the details of their work during World War II. I felt that the tempo of the book was just right, easily following the chronology of their lives and not drawing out any particular period for longer than the reader could endure.
The only criticisms I have are that I would love to see photos (which, to be fair, may be included in the print copies; I only had a Kindle copy), and I wish that specific data was available as to the extent of the Trocme's impact during World War II. How many children did they help? How many families? How many lives were saved, families reunited? How many children attended the Ecole Nouvelle Cevenole by the time it closed in 2014? Perhaps specific data is not available, or the author determined it would not add value to the story itself. Still, it would be interesting to know the full extent of the global impact of these two extraordinary people.
Conclusion
I had never heard of the Trocme family before requesting this book through Netgalley. Now I will share their story as often as possible! I love reading the courageous stories that come out of times of extreme oppression. This is one such story, and it is amazing. I would definitely recommend this book!
Introduction
Love in a Time of Hate is the fascinating story of Andre and Magda Trocme. It is divided into six chronological parts, starting with the childhood of Magda (Part I), the childhood of Andre (Part II), young adulthood/marriage/early ministry of the Trocmes (Part III), the early days of the Trocme's ministry in Le Chambon before the Nazi invasion (Part IV), their ministry, pacifism, and involvement with the underground resistance during the Vichy government (Part V), and their final days as France was liberated and their ministry spread across the globe (Part VI).
The story
Although I was eager to get to the meat of the Trocme's work during World War II, I was pleasantly surprised by Parts I-III. As is true for most of us, the individual upbringing of Magda and Andre was crucial to shaping their personal beliefs later in life. Magda's childhood was strict, motherless, and fraught with inner spiritual turmoil all played out in northern Italy. In contrast, Andre's childhood was one of privilege and strict Protestantism in northern France, although his mother also died when he was ten. By the time they met in the U.S., Andre had been called into ministry as a Reformed Pastor, and Magda dreamed of becoming a social worker.
These roles complimented each other later as they ministered to the farming communities and desperate refugees in Southern France. Their ministry began in northern France, but family health issues took them to southern France, despite the distrust of the French Reformed church. Andre frequently butted heads with the church leadership due to his pacifist beliefs, which he had developed while serving in the military. He was passionate about pacifism and tried to influence his congregations, to the annoyance of the underground resistance movement during the War. Even after the war, both Magda and Andre traveled the world spreading the message of peace and pacifism. Andre died after complications from a surgery, but Magda continued his work until her death a decade later.
The most fascinating parts of the book detail the Trocme's courageous work hiding and moving Jewish refugees during World War II. Jewish children in particular found refuge on the high plateau of Le Chambon. Thousands of children and sometimes entire families filtered through, receiving care and education at the school founded by the Trocmes - Ecole Nouvelle Cevenole - which was the only school of its kind in the entire region. Andre and his ministerial staff were imprisoned for their work, but were released mere days before the prison at which they were interred was closed and the prisoners sent to their deaths in Poland. Andre eventually had to go into hiding as the Germans had put a bounty on his head. He narrowly escaped being caught at one point, and credited his escape to an incident with his son and God's timing. Le Chambon was ultimately liberated and Andre was able to return to his family, but not before they suffered several tragic losses.
Literary analysis
This book was well written and thoroughly researched. I did find numerous grammatical and typographical errors that may have been due to its translation (the author is German). I believe, however, that these would be easily corrected with one more quick editorial review. In no way did any of the errors detract from the story.
The language is concise but engaging. I was just as interested reading the early biographical information as I was engrossed by the details of their work during World War II. I felt that the tempo of the book was just right, easily following the chronology of their lives and not drawing out any particular period for longer than the reader could endure.
The only criticisms I have are that I would love to see photos (which, to be fair, may be included in the print copies; I only had a Kindle copy), and I wish that specific data was available as to the extent of the Trocme's impact during World War II. How many children did they help? How many families? How many lives were saved, families reunited? How many children attended the Ecole Nouvelle Cevenole by the time it closed in 2014? Perhaps specific data is not available, or the author determined it would not add value to the story itself. Still, it would be interesting to know the full extent of the global impact of these two extraordinary people.
Conclusion
I had never heard of the Trocme family before requesting this book through Netgalley. Now I will share their story as often as possible! I love reading the courageous stories that come out of times of extreme oppression. This is one such story, and it is amazing. I would definitely recommend this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2017
I was told to read this book, but it is very good.
July 17, 2017
For this book, I sought my wife's thoughts on the book, to best review the emotional connection this tale can tell. This is her review.
This book features a story filled with the real depiction of the two kinds of people there are in this world. There are people who live according to hate, which in this story are the Nazis, and there are people who live according to love, which are the two main characters of this story: Andre and Magda Trocme.
The true story of the Trocme’s is inspiring and depicts the best parts of humanity. This beauty of this story is found in the lives of Andre and Magda Trocme who were ordinary people who believed in justice and love. Against all odds, they choice to stand for justice even if it cost them their lives and the lives of those whom they held the dearest. This truly is a story of triumphing despite the odds and amidst great tragedy. Holding to their beliefs and not yielding to the views of society, Andre and Magda risk everything to do the right thing and by doing so help thousands of Jews hide from the Nazis. This is a powerful story of great courage and even greater love.
This book is for those who enjoy learning about history, especially history during WWII. The author uses a narrative that keeps the reader intrigued and interested as the story unfolds. The author writes in a way that is easy to read and easy to follow the story along its journey. This story is told in such a way, using imagery and detail, that makes the story come to live. As a bonus, there are pictures throughout the book of Andre and Magda’s live that help paint a better picture of what they were like as people. Their story is nothing short of remarkable and there is much to be learned from the life they lived.
Disclosure: I have received a reviewer copy and/or payment in exchange for an honest review of the product mentioned in this post. This product is reviewed based on content and quality in consideration of the intended audience. Review or recommendation of this product does not solicit endorsement from Reviews by J or the reviewer.
This book features a story filled with the real depiction of the two kinds of people there are in this world. There are people who live according to hate, which in this story are the Nazis, and there are people who live according to love, which are the two main characters of this story: Andre and Magda Trocme.
The true story of the Trocme’s is inspiring and depicts the best parts of humanity. This beauty of this story is found in the lives of Andre and Magda Trocme who were ordinary people who believed in justice and love. Against all odds, they choice to stand for justice even if it cost them their lives and the lives of those whom they held the dearest. This truly is a story of triumphing despite the odds and amidst great tragedy. Holding to their beliefs and not yielding to the views of society, Andre and Magda risk everything to do the right thing and by doing so help thousands of Jews hide from the Nazis. This is a powerful story of great courage and even greater love.
This book is for those who enjoy learning about history, especially history during WWII. The author uses a narrative that keeps the reader intrigued and interested as the story unfolds. The author writes in a way that is easy to read and easy to follow the story along its journey. This story is told in such a way, using imagery and detail, that makes the story come to live. As a bonus, there are pictures throughout the book of Andre and Magda’s live that help paint a better picture of what they were like as people. Their story is nothing short of remarkable and there is much to be learned from the life they lived.
Disclosure: I have received a reviewer copy and/or payment in exchange for an honest review of the product mentioned in this post. This product is reviewed based on content and quality in consideration of the intended audience. Review or recommendation of this product does not solicit endorsement from Reviews by J or the reviewer.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 11, 2017
Love in a Time of Hate
By Hanna Schott
Translated by John D. Roth
The Story of Magda and André Trocmé
and the Village That Said No
to the Nazis
Love in a Time of Hate is a lovely and moving story in a time when fear and self-preservation were the reigning thought patterns or so it seemed. This is a story that proves this was not true throughout Nazi-occupied France.
The Prologue opens in 1940 with Magda opening the door when the doorbell rang - this scene brought to mind the picture of Jesus standing at the door knocking. And this scene is but a fleeting glimpse of the work that the Trocmé's did that was a living example of "...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 21:40)
This book is broken into parts that share the life story of Magda and André during their childhoods and the familial influences that shaped them into the people that they became. Into people who would take a stand to do what was right at the risk of their own lives and freedom. Into people who tried to live life in such a way so as to not be in conflict with the message that they had to share - a message of love to all during a time of hate and prejudice. To turn the other cheek was not just a statement to speak but a way of life in their commitment to live the peace that Jesus exemplified with His own life.
Love in a Time of Hate should be an example all should take to heart in this time in our own history, which is becoming equally turbulent and hateful. The historical aspects of this book recommend it in and of themselves. But the human equation adds a depth that many history books lack. This would be a welcome addition to any library and be an excellent choice for a book report.
I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Herald Press with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
By Hanna Schott
Translated by John D. Roth
The Story of Magda and André Trocmé
and the Village That Said No
to the Nazis
Love in a Time of Hate is a lovely and moving story in a time when fear and self-preservation were the reigning thought patterns or so it seemed. This is a story that proves this was not true throughout Nazi-occupied France.
The Prologue opens in 1940 with Magda opening the door when the doorbell rang - this scene brought to mind the picture of Jesus standing at the door knocking. And this scene is but a fleeting glimpse of the work that the Trocmé's did that was a living example of "...whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (Matthew 21:40)
This book is broken into parts that share the life story of Magda and André during their childhoods and the familial influences that shaped them into the people that they became. Into people who would take a stand to do what was right at the risk of their own lives and freedom. Into people who tried to live life in such a way so as to not be in conflict with the message that they had to share - a message of love to all during a time of hate and prejudice. To turn the other cheek was not just a statement to speak but a way of life in their commitment to live the peace that Jesus exemplified with His own life.
Love in a Time of Hate should be an example all should take to heart in this time in our own history, which is becoming equally turbulent and hateful. The historical aspects of this book recommend it in and of themselves. But the human equation adds a depth that many history books lack. This would be a welcome addition to any library and be an excellent choice for a book report.
I was provided a review copy of this book by the publisher Herald Press with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 11, 2017
Would we allow our lives to be interrupted and used by God, regardless of the personal cost? Would we protect others from an evil government planning their elimination?
That is the story of the Trocmes. Schott has done a good job of taking readers through the childhoods of Magda and Andre, their meeting, their marriage, and their service to others in the midst of danger.
The greatest impact of the story is when the Trocmes are in Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, a mountain village in the south-central region of France. Andre was a pacifist. It had been hard for him to find a pastoral position. In June 1940, German troops marched into Paris and an armistice signed. Le Chambon was more than one hundred miles south of Vichy and in the Free Zone. Refugees began pouring into the village. But then the order came. Beginning in October, all Jews were to be handed over to German officials. Andre and the villagers put their own lives in danger to protect Jews.
The story of Magda and Andre is inspiring. They are a good example of valuing the lives of others above their own as well as remaining true to the command of Christ to love our neighbor. Theirs is also a thought provoking story. What would we do, given the same kinds of circumstances?
I recommend this book to those who appreciate stories of sacrifice and heroism. You'll learn some about the Christian practice of the people of the area. Some were descendants of the Huguenots while others were followers of John Nelson Darby. You will be inspired and be challenged to think about the millions of refugees in the world today. Would we open our doors to strangers who asked for our protection as the Trocmes did?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
That is the story of the Trocmes. Schott has done a good job of taking readers through the childhoods of Magda and Andre, their meeting, their marriage, and their service to others in the midst of danger.
The greatest impact of the story is when the Trocmes are in Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, a mountain village in the south-central region of France. Andre was a pacifist. It had been hard for him to find a pastoral position. In June 1940, German troops marched into Paris and an armistice signed. Le Chambon was more than one hundred miles south of Vichy and in the Free Zone. Refugees began pouring into the village. But then the order came. Beginning in October, all Jews were to be handed over to German officials. Andre and the villagers put their own lives in danger to protect Jews.
The story of Magda and Andre is inspiring. They are a good example of valuing the lives of others above their own as well as remaining true to the command of Christ to love our neighbor. Theirs is also a thought provoking story. What would we do, given the same kinds of circumstances?
I recommend this book to those who appreciate stories of sacrifice and heroism. You'll learn some about the Christian practice of the people of the area. Some were descendants of the Huguenots while others were followers of John Nelson Darby. You will be inspired and be challenged to think about the millions of refugees in the world today. Would we open our doors to strangers who asked for our protection as the Trocmes did?
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
December 24, 2023
3.5 stars. Andre and Magda Trocme, featured in several books I've read this year about the French mountain town of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon and the role the residents played in saving Jews during World War II, are highlighted in this joint biography. Andre, a Protestant pastor who believed in pacifism, was raised in a large, wealthy, strict French family and lost his mother at age 10. Magda, Italian-Russian, was still an infant when her mother died; her father ignored her and her stepmother shunned her, and her care was mostly parceled out to governesses and Catholic boarding schools. Amazingly, the two grew into caring, intelligent adults. Even more amazingly, they met when they were both doing graduate work in New York City, Andre in theology and Magda in social work. Their marriage and family, and the events that led them to (and kept them in) Le Chambon, are described here, with many first-person excerpts from sermons and reminiscences. This is yet another testimonial as to how "ordinary" people can achieve great things, often through seemingly small actions.
July 9, 2017
I don't know what I was expecting from the book but I can honestly say it definitely opened my eyes to what bearing your cross really means. This is the story of Magda and Andre's journey that led them to the village that said no to the Nazis. Andre had such faith that God would not fail him, that he would be taken care of if he obeyed God's commands.
The love they showed in helping others and what they went through left me with tears in my eyes. You have to admire such people as these who lived their lives the way true disciples of Christ should.
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 3, 2017
Love in a Time of Hate is an intriguing look at the fascinating story of a pastor and his wife during World War II and how they protected persecuted Jews in their small French village. Husband and wife had both written their memoirs which the author drew heavily from. Readers get the full picture, the early life of the couple, and their backgrounds, and what happened after the war. Thanks to NetGalley for the advance copy.
June 22, 2017
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Somewhat dry account of the Trocmes and their courageous story of helping Jewish children and adults during World War II France. In spite of almost insurmountable odds, this caring couple helped more than 3000 people to evade the Nazi regime. An uplifting book, but as I said, a little on the dry side, lacking character development, rather relying on genealogical fact. Only my opinion.
Somewhat dry account of the Trocmes and their courageous story of helping Jewish children and adults during World War II France. In spite of almost insurmountable odds, this caring couple helped more than 3000 people to evade the Nazi regime. An uplifting book, but as I said, a little on the dry side, lacking character development, rather relying on genealogical fact. Only my opinion.
March 17, 2018
Excellent Holocaust read. It is a story of an area in southern France where refugees were protected and helped by a Protestant,conscientious objector Pastor and his wife. More than that, it is a testament to nonviolence and moral judgement in times of great
Suffering. Would be great for book club read.
Suffering. Would be great for book club read.
May 6, 2018
This book is a very captivating read, following the lives of André and Magda Trocmé from birth to death. This couple I had not heard of has a story that intertwines with Dietrich Bonhoeffer's seminary years in the US and the Rockefellers in New York before WW2, Albert Camus during WW2 and even Ghandi and Rosa Parks. Wonderful true story that includes excerpts from personal letters.
May 31, 2018
So many parallels between this story and our current political and cultural climate. The courage of the Trocmes serves as an example to contemporary Christians about how we should be responding to this moment, to the global refugee crisis, to the separation of children from parents at the southern border.
March 19, 2019
I love this story. I have read about this amazing town on other books but reading the history, particularly of the pastor and his wife, was fascinating. Both of them came from very difficult childhoods which could have put them on a very different path. However the faith they both found and later used to help save so many people is remarkable.
July 1, 2021
This is the story of Magda and Andre Trocme and the small French village of Le Cambon-sur-Lignon as they hid more than three thousand Jewish children and adults from the Nazis. They took great chances and risked their own lives. Although the true story is amazing, the book was rather dry and disjointed. Not my favorite.
January 12, 2018
Very disappointed in this book. Subtitle was...how one town said no to the Nazis. Very little was about what they did, most of the book was the bio of Magda and Andre from childhood, and his struggles with the Protestant church in France. (Hougenots) if you WWII history, skip this book.
June 30, 2017
Really interesting story about a couple, Magda & Andre who saved Jews during WW2 occupied France. An amazing story of true heroes. I would highly recommend.
July 4, 2018
Loved this - incredible true story
March 12, 2019
Inspiring story of the pastor and wife who led an entire French village to shelter Jews during WWII
April 15, 2019
Starts slow with lots of history but very interesting eventually.
April 4, 2021
Some people's lives should be immortalized and taught as a way of life . This entire area of France exemplified the best of humanity under the worst of conditions .
May 28, 2021
A beautiful and inspiring story.
August 18, 2024
This book was a beautiful reminder that humanity is not lost. A must read in times that we ned to remember what should not happen again.
April 19, 2025
A very gripping true story of saving many Jews during the occupation of France. It shows what can be accomplished when a small group of people have a common goal and good leadership!
April 22, 2017
Love in a Time of Hate
The Story of Magda and André Trocmé and the Village That Said No to the Nazis
by Hanna Schott
Herald Press
Biographies & Memoirs , History
Pub Date 13 Jun 2017
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy of Love in A Time of Hate Tthrough Herald Press and Netgalley:
Magda and Andre Trocme are married, Andre a preacher and Magda stays home to raise there children.
Magda's Father had not been a man to openly display his affections. Her Stepmother looks at Magda only as a reminder of her husband's previous life, but her Stepmother is pleased when Magda takes interest in her stepmothers Catholic Faith.
Magda attended a catholic boarding school for three years, a time when her Father rarely visited. In 1918 the year of The Spanish Influenza.
Andre Trocme was born only a few meters from the Champs-Elysees, despite the families status and wealth Andre's childhood was not a happy one. He only got to spend a few hours a week with his Mother, Time that he cherished, for the most part he and his siblings were in the care of Nannies. When he was only ten Andre's Mother died.
In 1918 his family moves to Paris, a move that he hopes will lead to a more normal life. After announcing to his Father who is pleased that he wants to be a Pastor, he begins studying theology in 1919. In 1921 Andrew interrupts his study in order to begin a period of compulsory Military studies.
In 1926 Andre and Magda are both living in New York, Andre studying to be a Pastor and Magda looking into social work. On April.18,1926 Andre proposes to Magda.
Magda's family warned her against marrying Andre, they feared a Italian Catholic woman would not make a good match. It wasn't only Magda's family that opposed to the union but Andre's Father as well. Despite these setbacks they were married and in the Summer of 1927 their first child was born, a daughter. They named the little girl Helena, Nelly for short and she was named after Magda's Mother who had died when Magda was an infant.
For six years the Trocme's lived in Sin-le-Noble where Andre served as a Pastor, while there they had three sons in 1930 Jean-Pierre in 1931 Jacques was born and Daniel in 1933. By 1933 the Children's health are suffering and Andre requests to be move to a church in a place where the children could get proper care. Nelly theoldest has suffered Bronchitis from her infancy. In 1934 the family is finally moved to Le Chambon.
On June 14,1940 German troops marched into Paris, two days later the western advance came to an end.
Before the war shows up on their doorstep Magda and Andre already find themselves becoming a champion for their Jewish Brothers and Sisters. Andre teaches his congregation to lie to the authorities about the presence of Jews in their cities, not an easy task for the Pastor, but a necessary one.
Andre houses some of those trying to escape the Nazi's in the Parsonage, some were unaccompanied Refugees as young as four years old and the oldest of the unaccompanied refugees were nearly adults.
Even those who did not belong to the church found themselves defending it. In the summer of 1942,in Paris all the Jews were driven together to a sports stadium close to the Eiffel tower called the Veldrome d'Hiver, for five days in the middle of July they were held there without food or water, without beds, or wash facilities and with toilets that soon overflowed. The sinister operation was named Spring Breeze.
By 1943 the Trocme's find themselves in more danger and Andre is urged to go into hiding, and for ten months he is separated from his family, while Magda works as a Bicycle Courier, but by 194; there Middle son Jacques misses his Father terribly and is sent to Be with him.
This is the story of a remarkable family who refused to be a part of the horrendous mistreatment of their Jewish brothers and Sisters at a time when standing up could mean they were signing up for a death sentence.
I give Love in A Time of Hate five out of five stars.
Happy Reading.
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