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A Prisoner and Yet . .
When the Nazis overran Holland Corrie ten Boom, her father and sister, chose to risk death by making their quietly respectable home a haven for refugees - much like Anne Frank's family.Finally, the Gestapo came - and during months in concentration camps that followed, Corrie ten Boom shared suffering and torture, watched her father and sister die.Yet she survived, mind intact, soul still free.Where did this gentle, undemanding woman find the courage to resist... to suffer... yet to endure?This book contains the answer. It reveals a belief in Christ that carried an innocent woman through some of the worst agonies man can devise. Here is one of the most tragic, yet finally most inspiring and faith-giving true stories of modern times!
Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1954
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About the author
Corrie ten Boom
102 books1,656 followersCorrie ten Boom and her family were Christians who were active in social work in their home town of Haarlem, the Netherlands. During the Nazi occupation, they chose to act out their faith through peaceful resistance to the Nazis by active participation in the Dutch underground. They were hiding, feeding and transporting Jews and underground members hunted by the Gestapo out of the country. It is estimated they were able to save the lives of 800 Jews, in addition to protecting underground workers.
On Feb. 28, 1944, they were betrayed and Corrie and several relatives were arrested. The four Jews and two underground workers in the house at the time of the arrest were not located by the Nazis and were extricated by the underground 47 hours after they fled to the tiny hiding place (located in Corrie's room).
The ten Boom family members were separated and transferred to concentration camps. Corrie was allowed to stay with her precious sister, Betsy. Corrie's father (Casper), her sister (Betsy) and one grandchild (Kik) perished. Corrie was released in December of 1944.
These acts of heroism and sacrifice became the foundation for Corrie ten Boom's global writing and speaking career which began after she was released.
Ten Boom has received numerous awards for her writing and speaking. Notably, she was honored by the State of Israel for her work in aid of the Jewish people by being invited to plant a tree in the famous Avenue of the Righteous Gentiles, at the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, near Jerusalem. She was also knighted by the Queen of the Netherlands in recognition of her work during the war, and a museum in the Dutch city of Haarlem is dedicated to her and her family.
On Feb. 28, 1944, they were betrayed and Corrie and several relatives were arrested. The four Jews and two underground workers in the house at the time of the arrest were not located by the Nazis and were extricated by the underground 47 hours after they fled to the tiny hiding place (located in Corrie's room).
The ten Boom family members were separated and transferred to concentration camps. Corrie was allowed to stay with her precious sister, Betsy. Corrie's father (Casper), her sister (Betsy) and one grandchild (Kik) perished. Corrie was released in December of 1944.
These acts of heroism and sacrifice became the foundation for Corrie ten Boom's global writing and speaking career which began after she was released.
Ten Boom has received numerous awards for her writing and speaking. Notably, she was honored by the State of Israel for her work in aid of the Jewish people by being invited to plant a tree in the famous Avenue of the Righteous Gentiles, at the Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum, near Jerusalem. She was also knighted by the Queen of the Netherlands in recognition of her work during the war, and a museum in the Dutch city of Haarlem is dedicated to her and her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
January 1, 2016
[Technically I finished this at thirteen minutes past midnight, but I'm counting it as a 2015 read!]
Eight weeks ago, Jim Wilson called me out of the blue and suggested that we chat. I was in his living room about an hour later (good...no time to get nervous). He said we could talk about whatever I wanted, but I said that it was his idea, so I didn't know what to talk about. All I knew was that I'd been in a funk for several weeks, probably months, and was feeling pretty stuck there, and if the good Lord was going to put it on Jim Wilson's heart to offer me some of the dwindling precious resource of his time, I sure wasn't about to say no. I may not be the brightest tool in the shed, but I ain't that dumb.
Anyway, I don't remember much specifically of what we talked about, but I do know that a couple days later I finally identified my spiritual clog, repented of it, and things got back to flowing smoothly. At the end of our conversation, he handed me a stack of five books, directing me to read them and get back to him. I asked for a deadline, and he gave me six weeks. Today marks eight (oops), and A Prisoner and Yet was the final book.
I've known and loved Corrie's story for nearly forty years, and read a pile of her books when I was in my 20s. I'm not entirely sure if this was one of them, but it's largely the same material that's in The Hiding Place. Mr. Wilson (who knew Corrie) says, however, that the co-authors of that book played a little loose with the truth, so I'll consider this one to be the more reliable source. Happily, some of my favorite stories were told here, so I don't have the disappointment of having to doubt them. The reminder that there is no pit so deep that God is not deeper still is as helpful as always. The reminder to cling to Him in prayer and in His Word is ever-needful. The reminder to be always looking for people to love is one I need perpetually pounded into my petrous pate. In short, though this volume could have been better edited and organized, the story of God's dealings with Cornelia ten Boom in the valley of the shadow of death is as glorious as ever and as dear to my heart.
Eight weeks ago, Jim Wilson called me out of the blue and suggested that we chat. I was in his living room about an hour later (good...no time to get nervous). He said we could talk about whatever I wanted, but I said that it was his idea, so I didn't know what to talk about. All I knew was that I'd been in a funk for several weeks, probably months, and was feeling pretty stuck there, and if the good Lord was going to put it on Jim Wilson's heart to offer me some of the dwindling precious resource of his time, I sure wasn't about to say no. I may not be the brightest tool in the shed, but I ain't that dumb.
Anyway, I don't remember much specifically of what we talked about, but I do know that a couple days later I finally identified my spiritual clog, repented of it, and things got back to flowing smoothly. At the end of our conversation, he handed me a stack of five books, directing me to read them and get back to him. I asked for a deadline, and he gave me six weeks. Today marks eight (oops), and A Prisoner and Yet was the final book.
I've known and loved Corrie's story for nearly forty years, and read a pile of her books when I was in my 20s. I'm not entirely sure if this was one of them, but it's largely the same material that's in The Hiding Place. Mr. Wilson (who knew Corrie) says, however, that the co-authors of that book played a little loose with the truth, so I'll consider this one to be the more reliable source. Happily, some of my favorite stories were told here, so I don't have the disappointment of having to doubt them. The reminder that there is no pit so deep that God is not deeper still is as helpful as always. The reminder to cling to Him in prayer and in His Word is ever-needful. The reminder to be always looking for people to love is one I need perpetually pounded into my petrous pate. In short, though this volume could have been better edited and organized, the story of God's dealings with Cornelia ten Boom in the valley of the shadow of death is as glorious as ever and as dear to my heart.
September 4, 2023
Corrie Ten Boom was an amazing lady. She suffered atrocities no one should suffer. She was beaten, starved, humiliated, stripped naked, cold, sick, and lost her family in that concentration camp.
And yet... she shared Jesus with the hope of glory to her fellow prisoners and guards. She counted her suffering as for Christ and understood an inkling of what He did for her on the cross was nothing compared to the glory that will be revealed ahead of her in Heaven. This book is not only an inspirational story but also a book on the history of what happened in WWII in Ravensbrook concentration camp in Germany. I highly recommend this book.
And yet... she shared Jesus with the hope of glory to her fellow prisoners and guards. She counted her suffering as for Christ and understood an inkling of what He did for her on the cross was nothing compared to the glory that will be revealed ahead of her in Heaven. This book is not only an inspirational story but also a book on the history of what happened in WWII in Ravensbrook concentration camp in Germany. I highly recommend this book.
February 1, 2022
Reading this book reminded me that life is not all about me and that life is full of suffering. One of the most fascinating parts about Corrie's story is that she simply viewed her imprisonment as the environment where Christ had guided her to carry the gospel. To Corrie, imprisonment was a fluid part of her journey with Christ, a result that naturally overflowed from her commitment to Him. Reading about Corrie's humble acceptance of her circumstances helped me walk through my days with greater humility, less phased by the burdens, annoyances, and even the suffering of every day life. This book challenges the American idea that suffering should be minimized at all costs and will help you put your guard down and let Christ in.
January 21, 2010
The only reason I did not give this book five stars is b/c it was not easy to read. Human suffering is never easy to read about, but when it is a woman sharing about torture, death, and oppression in a concentration camp- well, it was an emotional journey. I was continually struck by the tremendous potential humans have for evil- how easily we can be led astray- willing to do unspeakable horrors to another based on lies.
Her courage in the face of so much sorrow and death was so uplifting- almost unrealistic- and I felt convicted by my own lack of faith. How would I have fared in those circumstances? Would I have despaired- or held onto the faith which has sustained me throughout almost my entire life?
Great book, recommend reading a chapter or two a day, it can be hard to read more than that in one sitting.
Her courage in the face of so much sorrow and death was so uplifting- almost unrealistic- and I felt convicted by my own lack of faith. How would I have fared in those circumstances? Would I have despaired- or held onto the faith which has sustained me throughout almost my entire life?
Great book, recommend reading a chapter or two a day, it can be hard to read more than that in one sitting.
September 16, 2023
This book isn't as good as The Hiding Place but it is still so encouraging and so heartbreaking. 💔 Corrie Ten Boom was an amazing woman and is one of my heroes.
March 28, 2023
This is so hard for me because I love CTB!! Like, want to name a daughter Corrie. Buttttt this was not my favorite. It was *fine,* but not great? And almost painted her in too positive a light?
If you’ve read The Hiding Place, you know it was Betsie who was the spiritually strong sister but that isn’t the takeaway in this book. It was kind of laborious to get through and that caught me off guard. And I’ve read other books from CTB besides The Hiding Place and it didn’t feel like this…arrogant? I’m not sure that’s the right word, but it just didn’t have the humility I was used to from her.
If you’ve read The Hiding Place, you know it was Betsie who was the spiritually strong sister but that isn’t the takeaway in this book. It was kind of laborious to get through and that caught me off guard. And I’ve read other books from CTB besides The Hiding Place and it didn’t feel like this…arrogant? I’m not sure that’s the right word, but it just didn’t have the humility I was used to from her.
December 31, 2021
5+ stars & 7/10 hearts. Wow. This is a great companion to The Hiding Place: The Triumphant True Story of Corrie Ten Boom. It spans from just before Corrie’s arrest to right after she is released, and it gave more information on her time in prison and at Ravensbrück. I found it riveting. It was a mixture of stories and of lessons she learned. Some of them really spoke to me, like how lonely she was at first in solitary confinement, but then how quickly she grew very close to Jesus. I didn’t agree with ALL of her or Betsie’s theology/ideas but overall it was really good and had some excellent and very touching messages. What struck me most of all, though, were her stories on the jail and concentration camp. The prisoners but especially the guards/soldiers became real people. Guard Katja, exactly my age and with exactly my name, broke my heart. Corrie showed some amazing people at whom you just shook your head and wondered how on earth they ended up in this… and others from whom you shrank and wondered how on earth they came so low. Like The Hiding Place, this isn’t whitewashed. Corrie mentions out-of-wedlock pregnancy, etc; prostitutes; and adultery, besides a lot of violence and evil. It’s about as violent as THP, but has just a wee bit more content, I think, since it dwells on so many unsaved people. However, in this book, Corrie also dwells on all the Christian/God-fearing people there were among the prisoners and told you of many more than she did in THP. It almost brought me to tears several times to see how much they changed things just by living for God. To see all the miracles He did and the work He did. One girl summed it up in words approximately like these: “I see now why He allowed that I came here. If I hadn’t come to the camp, I wouldn’t have found God.”
Overall, I really recommend this especially if you have read THP. If you’re a sensitive reader, maybe look into having someone edit for you…?
Recommended age: 18+
Overall, I really recommend this especially if you have read THP. If you’re a sensitive reader, maybe look into having someone edit for you…?
Recommended age: 18+
May 1, 2014
A challenging and inspiring book! Oh, the things we take for granted. I cried when I read of the part when Corrie had been released and arrived back in Holland where she was treated with kindness and lovingly cared for. To eat a good meal, take a warm bath, wear soft and clean clothes, sleep in a warm and cozy bed, enjoy colors of beauty around her, and to be around kind people again! We enjoy that daily yet too often complain when something doesn't quite go our way! The statement that stood out to me after her release was, "Much work, I hoped, lay ahead of me; perhaps loneliness, too. No, not loneliness. I would love others, and then one does not remain lonely." How true that statement is! Oh, that I can love my Saviour as did Betsie and Corrie Ten Boom did in distress and hunger and anguish!
August 6, 2020
After reading “The Hiding Place,” I wanted to know more about Corrie ten Boom’s life. So, I ordered five more books; and this was one of them. “A Prisoner and Yet” is Corrie’s detailed account of her prison experiences; beginning with the Scheveningen prison and concluding with her time at Ravensbruck during WWII. If I understand the timeline correctly, this would have been her first book. It was released in 1947 in Holland; just two years after her release from Ravensbruck. It was released in English in 1954.
As I said in my review of “The Hiding Place,” those who believe that the Holocaust never happened need to read books like this. These stories are firsthand eyewitness accounts of the actual atrocities that took place during the war; and they are heart-wrenching to say the least. But the real message of it all was the fact that she and her sister, Betsie, were able to maintain their faith in God throughout all of the horrors that went on around them. They even managed to share their faith with many of the people who were incarcerated with them. Some of this was difficult to read given the level of torture that went on. I am amazed to think that human beings could be as cruel and vile to one another as what I read here. I thank God for people like Corrie who can rely on the presence of God in their lives to get them through even deepest pits known to man.
As I said in my review of “The Hiding Place,” those who believe that the Holocaust never happened need to read books like this. These stories are firsthand eyewitness accounts of the actual atrocities that took place during the war; and they are heart-wrenching to say the least. But the real message of it all was the fact that she and her sister, Betsie, were able to maintain their faith in God throughout all of the horrors that went on around them. They even managed to share their faith with many of the people who were incarcerated with them. Some of this was difficult to read given the level of torture that went on. I am amazed to think that human beings could be as cruel and vile to one another as what I read here. I thank God for people like Corrie who can rely on the presence of God in their lives to get them through even deepest pits known to man.
December 29, 2019
I read this book on the heels of reading The Hiding Place but I should have read this one first, as it was published first (1947). It explains in more detail of Corrie's thoughts and her emotional struggles as she witnessed the hell that was Ravensbruck. Both books offer unique facts and insights both into the Ten Boom family and their experiences so I would say read them together for a better picture!
I haven't read these books since I was a teen. While I admired her then and have always thought her "inspirational" - now that I'm a wee bit older I would say that Corrie has turned into a genuine hero of the faith to me. It's true that God doesn't waste a single experience in our lives! The things she went through all those years ago, and her reaction to them, are still witnessing to and encouraging Christians generations later. I am grateful for her experiences and I sincerely believe she wouldn't mind my saying so. I can't wait to meet her someday.
I haven't read these books since I was a teen. While I admired her then and have always thought her "inspirational" - now that I'm a wee bit older I would say that Corrie has turned into a genuine hero of the faith to me. It's true that God doesn't waste a single experience in our lives! The things she went through all those years ago, and her reaction to them, are still witnessing to and encouraging Christians generations later. I am grateful for her experiences and I sincerely believe she wouldn't mind my saying so. I can't wait to meet her someday.
December 5, 2020
Fantastic!
April 19, 2025
Corrie’s story is so hard, but also beautiful the way she and her family trust the Lord even in a concentration camp!
September 25, 2021
A Prisoner and Yet was a book I read as a young adult, but it is definitely not limited to goat age limit.
This a follow up to The Hiding Place, which is an amazing book.
Corrie's family helped Jews avoid capture by the Nazis in Holland by building a false wall which covered a small space in the event of a raid.
Her whole family was arrested, sent on long train rides, and taken to the Nazi death camps. She was the only one to survive, and eventually released almost as a fluke, which of course she felt was God's provision and will.
This book covers more of what happened in prison, and some of the years that followed, including meeting and forgiving one of the guards from the prison.
This book is amazing and one not to miss....
AND it is a true story.
Addendum…
Six years after I wrote this someone "liked" it. I had to read what I wrote since I seldom remember things from that long ago. Now I wish I had read it BEFORE I pressed Save!
Goat???? 😳 I can’t even imagine what word my fingers were trying to type, but I’m quite certain it wasn’t goat! Let’s pretend I said "that" instead of "goat", shall we?
Whew, glad I got that off my chest.
(Thanks Katja)
This a follow up to The Hiding Place, which is an amazing book.
Corrie's family helped Jews avoid capture by the Nazis in Holland by building a false wall which covered a small space in the event of a raid.
Her whole family was arrested, sent on long train rides, and taken to the Nazi death camps. She was the only one to survive, and eventually released almost as a fluke, which of course she felt was God's provision and will.
This book covers more of what happened in prison, and some of the years that followed, including meeting and forgiving one of the guards from the prison.
This book is amazing and one not to miss....
AND it is a true story.
Addendum…
Six years after I wrote this someone "liked" it. I had to read what I wrote since I seldom remember things from that long ago. Now I wish I had read it BEFORE I pressed Save!
Goat???? 😳 I can’t even imagine what word my fingers were trying to type, but I’m quite certain it wasn’t goat! Let’s pretend I said "that" instead of "goat", shall we?
Whew, glad I got that off my chest.
(Thanks Katja)
February 8, 2019
I have a special place in my heart for Corrie ten Boom. She is one of my favorite authors and Christian examples. The Hiding Place is in my top five favorite books of all time, but I didn’t love this one quite as much. It was still a great book, and I never tire of reading about Corrie’s faith in God and His hand at work in her time at the camp, but this book seemed rushed and less detailed in comparison to the Hiding Place. I felt like a lot of things were briefly summed up instead of being fleshed out like they were in her other writing. Still a great book though.
October 8, 2013
This was repetitive from hiding places. It was very good. Makes you very grateful for the life you have. I look up to Corrie ten Boom and her sister. They were very courageous. Corrie is someone we could live to be like. Her belief in God is amazing. No matter what she went through her belief was there. To have faith as strong as hers. I am sure she doubted at times but she persevered. They experienced some rough times and Corrie came out a changed person. I am amazed at her story.
January 28, 2011
I really liked this. It reminded me more of reading her journal--the emotions seem more immediate with each little story. Someone co-wrote "the Hiding Place" and it seems more like a novel with more context. I would recommend reading "The Hiding Place" before this one, so the reader has the context.
January 16, 2015
Not very well written, probably due to translation. I enjoyed The Hiding Place, & this book elaborates on the segment from THP that she spent in prison/concentration camp. If you have the choice, read THP; and if you've read THP, skip this one.
October 28, 2017
I love how human Corrie Ten Boom comes across in this book as she writes about the hardships of living in a concentration camp.Yet, she overcame in so many ways and loved those around her. I wish more people would read this book.
June 6, 2018
Worthy read for all ages
Corrie paints a vivid picture of her experience in concentration camps. Through it all she never gave up hope and used her time at the camps to minister to others.
Corrie paints a vivid picture of her experience in concentration camps. Through it all she never gave up hope and used her time at the camps to minister to others.
February 3, 2022
This book is one of Corrie ten Boom's first books published, (Amazing Love was her first book published one year before this book).
The time frame of this book and so many of the stories here are similar to The Hiding Place. However, there are MORE stories and MORE experiences in this book than in The Hiding Place. Its not a huge book, so there are pieces of The Hiding Place that are NOT in this book.
A Prisoner and Yet is very raw, written by Corrie herself. There isn't a 2nd author on this book like some of her others. This is just Corrie writing what happened. The story arch is not smooth, its not written like a novel (like the Hiding Place). Its pieces here and there. Its choppy. Its so so real and raw.
I've read reviews that the co-authors of The Hiding Place took too much liberty with Corrie's story and changed/added what didn't actually happen. I'm not sure about that. But this book, you can be assured, is straight from Corrie herself.
I marked up this book as if it was a self help book. I noted "Not it THP" for stories that are not in The Hiding Place.
I love this book and Corrie's honesty and goodness. She is so much of what I want to be. She is always the bigger person. She is always thinking of Jesus Christ and his atonement, his sacrifice. She uses each of her hardships to grow.
HOW CAN I do this? I'm so weak and small in spirit compared to her. I'm petty and childish. I see it, but its hard to be better.
Quotes may have spoilers:
When they had 6 extra people in their home she said:
Corrie wasn't a mother, but this quote still makes me think of keeping my house clean. I'm constantly scolding about cleaning and tidiness (or lack thereof). Its not helpful and doesn't do any good, yet it continues to be my only method at getting help. I need to learn a lesson from Corrie: relegate it to the background, it's not as important as a happy home.
Corrie was in prison at Scheveningen, solitary confinement for many months.
Wow, what presence. She was in the moment. She didn't want to be distracted or zone out. She was fully present.
As Betsie and Corrie entered Ravensbruck, they spent two nights outside before it was their turn to have all possessions and clothing taken from them.
This story is in The Hiding Place, but it is such a wonderful example of how she trusted in the Lord, and how the Lord helped her and Betsie, that I had to include it here in this review.
The time frame of this book and so many of the stories here are similar to The Hiding Place. However, there are MORE stories and MORE experiences in this book than in The Hiding Place. Its not a huge book, so there are pieces of The Hiding Place that are NOT in this book.
A Prisoner and Yet is very raw, written by Corrie herself. There isn't a 2nd author on this book like some of her others. This is just Corrie writing what happened. The story arch is not smooth, its not written like a novel (like the Hiding Place). Its pieces here and there. Its choppy. Its so so real and raw.
I've read reviews that the co-authors of The Hiding Place took too much liberty with Corrie's story and changed/added what didn't actually happen. I'm not sure about that. But this book, you can be assured, is straight from Corrie herself.
I marked up this book as if it was a self help book. I noted "Not it THP" for stories that are not in The Hiding Place.
I love this book and Corrie's honesty and goodness. She is so much of what I want to be. She is always the bigger person. She is always thinking of Jesus Christ and his atonement, his sacrifice. She uses each of her hardships to grow.
HOW CAN I do this? I'm so weak and small in spirit compared to her. I'm petty and childish. I see it, but its hard to be better.
Quotes may have spoilers:
When they had 6 extra people in their home she said:
"The house was becoming a bit untidy, for there was no really expert help to be had; but we did the beset we could. The most important thing, in any case, was that people should be rescued, and the next that they should have a happy home. And repeated scoldings about tidiness did not fit into that picture. Things that were formerly so important were now relegated to the background." (Prisoner, p.13)
Corrie wasn't a mother, but this quote still makes me think of keeping my house clean. I'm constantly scolding about cleaning and tidiness (or lack thereof). Its not helpful and doesn't do any good, yet it continues to be my only method at getting help. I need to learn a lesson from Corrie: relegate it to the background, it's not as important as a happy home.
Corrie was in prison at Scheveningen, solitary confinement for many months.
"When singing, I laid aside my embroidery work; it would have been an extravagance to do two things at the same time." (Prisoner, p.34)
Wow, what presence. She was in the moment. She didn't want to be distracted or zone out. She was fully present.
"God makes no mistakes. Everything looks like a confused piece of embroidery work, meaningless and ugly. But that is the underside. Some day we shall see the right side and shall be amazed and thankful." (Prisoner, 82)
As Betsie and Corrie entered Ravensbruck, they spent two nights outside before it was their turn to have all possessions and clothing taken from them.
"Betsie, are you prepared to offer this sacrifice also, if God should ask it?"
"Corrie, I cannot do it," she whispered softly.
Oh, I could scarcely doing t myself; but I was not thinking of myself then; I was suffering deeply with Betsie.
Why did the Lord ask anything so hard from us? I pleaded, "O Lord, if Thou dost nevertheless ask this sacrifice of us, give us the strength of offer it; give us the willingness to make it."...
"I cannot," repeated Betsie.
For a few minutes we were quiet and spoke softly with the Saviour. He was with us and knew what we were suffering, and He loved us.
"Lord, if Thou dost ask this sacrifice of us, give us the strength to make it."
"Corrie, I am ready," whispered Bestie softly.
"Then everything is all right," I answered.
This story is in The Hiding Place, but it is such a wonderful example of how she trusted in the Lord, and how the Lord helped her and Betsie, that I had to include it here in this review.
February 2, 2025
Number of pages: 187
Genre: Non-fiction Biography WWII
Series: This is the first book Corrie wrote about her experiences during the war, many of which are retold in The Hiding Place
Age recommendation: 14+
Summary: During WWII Corrie, her sister Betsie, and their father hid Jewish people in their home to protect them from the Nazis’ hatred. One day their home was raided, the TenBooms were sent to jail, and later moved to a concentration camp. But even in the worst of it, Corrie never lost her faith in God.
My thoughts: I think I’m going to have a biased opinion of this book because I was able to go to Corrie TenBoom’s home in Haarlem and get a tour (it is now a museum) and I bought this book there (which makes it that much cooler 😉).
The book was very interesting. I loved how there were so many short little stories that gave extra details about her life. There was still the one continuing story of her arrest and need for God during her imprisonment, but many of the small graces He provided her with are recorded and it’s so amazing to read.
Corrie tells a lot of stories about her imprisonment and how God was still with her through it all. For people who have read The Hiding Place, this book seems to cover a lot of the same material, only in more detail. There were a lot of short stories of specific things that happened to Corrie (i.e. specific stories from the prison/concentration camp, etc.) Everything was condensed in The Hiding Place as Corrie’s imprisonment is not the main focus. This book was actually written before though, probably because Corrie’s main mission was to share the love and power of Jesus with everyone, and A Prisoner and Yet shows how God is still good and kind and there for/with us, even in the midst of trials. Difficulties doesn’t mean we stop believing in God. They simply force us to turn to Him for the strength and power to continue. And it’s not easy. I like that Corrie does mention some of her failures where she stops trusting God’s provision. However, He never stops providing for His children.
The one thing I found really weird is that the book is only four chapters, which makes each chapter really long. For the longest ones though, there are subheadings for the individual stories which makes it easier to take a break in the middle of a chapter. It’s still not my favourite format though, although I understand why she did it (and can’t currently think of a better way of organizing it).
Sometimes I found the way she described people a little demeaning (although she didn’t mean it that way). She calls people "feebleminded," however I know it is how it would have been spoken of at that time so I don’t fault her for it. Along the same lines, some of the language is outdated and is either simply not used, or has a different meaning now. It’s not a big deal, it’s just because again, the book is older (published 1947) but just something to keep in mind as you’re reading.
Corrie’s story is amazing, if you’re interested in more details about Corrie’s imprisonment, her time at Ravensbruck and some of the things that happened to people around her, I would definitely recommend reading this book.
My personal rating: 5/5 stars.
Link to blog: https://karinaschristianreads.wordpre...
Genre: Non-fiction Biography WWII
Series: This is the first book Corrie wrote about her experiences during the war, many of which are retold in The Hiding Place
Age recommendation: 14+
Summary: During WWII Corrie, her sister Betsie, and their father hid Jewish people in their home to protect them from the Nazis’ hatred. One day their home was raided, the TenBooms were sent to jail, and later moved to a concentration camp. But even in the worst of it, Corrie never lost her faith in God.
My thoughts: I think I’m going to have a biased opinion of this book because I was able to go to Corrie TenBoom’s home in Haarlem and get a tour (it is now a museum) and I bought this book there (which makes it that much cooler 😉).
The book was very interesting. I loved how there were so many short little stories that gave extra details about her life. There was still the one continuing story of her arrest and need for God during her imprisonment, but many of the small graces He provided her with are recorded and it’s so amazing to read.
Corrie tells a lot of stories about her imprisonment and how God was still with her through it all. For people who have read The Hiding Place, this book seems to cover a lot of the same material, only in more detail. There were a lot of short stories of specific things that happened to Corrie (i.e. specific stories from the prison/concentration camp, etc.) Everything was condensed in The Hiding Place as Corrie’s imprisonment is not the main focus. This book was actually written before though, probably because Corrie’s main mission was to share the love and power of Jesus with everyone, and A Prisoner and Yet shows how God is still good and kind and there for/with us, even in the midst of trials. Difficulties doesn’t mean we stop believing in God. They simply force us to turn to Him for the strength and power to continue. And it’s not easy. I like that Corrie does mention some of her failures where she stops trusting God’s provision. However, He never stops providing for His children.
The one thing I found really weird is that the book is only four chapters, which makes each chapter really long. For the longest ones though, there are subheadings for the individual stories which makes it easier to take a break in the middle of a chapter. It’s still not my favourite format though, although I understand why she did it (and can’t currently think of a better way of organizing it).
Sometimes I found the way she described people a little demeaning (although she didn’t mean it that way). She calls people "feebleminded," however I know it is how it would have been spoken of at that time so I don’t fault her for it. Along the same lines, some of the language is outdated and is either simply not used, or has a different meaning now. It’s not a big deal, it’s just because again, the book is older (published 1947) but just something to keep in mind as you’re reading.
Corrie’s story is amazing, if you’re interested in more details about Corrie’s imprisonment, her time at Ravensbruck and some of the things that happened to people around her, I would definitely recommend reading this book.
My personal rating: 5/5 stars.
Link to blog: https://karinaschristianreads.wordpre...
July 8, 2024
This is a more in-depth look at Corrie’s life while she was in the prisons and concentration camps during World War 2. More of the terror and harshness is described in this book but also the details of God at work there and in Corrie’s life. It was difficult to read at times. But a blessing as well.
I am thankful that Corrie was able to put her experiences in writing. We should never forget what deplorable levels human beings sunk to during those times. But in the midst of all of it, God was there, giving encouragement and strength to those who followed Him and helping them to know “that there is no pit that God is not deeper still.”
This time in Corrie’s life was not wasted. In addition to being able to share with those in the prisons and camps, It prepared her for a life of worldwide evangelism where she would travel to over 64 countries sharing of God’s love and care, telling all of the lesson that we are never alone and He is with us and so much more.
This is a book for adults. I highly recommend it.
I am thankful that Corrie was able to put her experiences in writing. We should never forget what deplorable levels human beings sunk to during those times. But in the midst of all of it, God was there, giving encouragement and strength to those who followed Him and helping them to know “that there is no pit that God is not deeper still.”
This time in Corrie’s life was not wasted. In addition to being able to share with those in the prisons and camps, It prepared her for a life of worldwide evangelism where she would travel to over 64 countries sharing of God’s love and care, telling all of the lesson that we are never alone and He is with us and so much more.
This is a book for adults. I highly recommend it.
July 9, 2024
This is a more in-depth look at Corrie’s life while she was in the prisons and concentration camps during World War 2. More of the terror and harshness is described in this book but also the details of God at work there and in Corrie’s life. It was difficult to read at times. But a blessing as well.
I am thankful that Corrie was able to put her experiences in writing. We should never forget what deplorable levels human beings sunk to during those times. But in the midst of all of it, God was there, giving encouragement and strength to those who followed Him and helping them to know “that there is no pit that God is not deeper still.”
This time in Corrie’s life was not wasted. In addition to being able to share with those in the prisons and camps, It prepared her for a life of worldwide evangelism where she would travel to over 64 countries sharing of God’s love and care, telling all of the lesson that we are never alone and He is with us and so much more.
This is a book for adults. I highly recommend it.
I am thankful that Corrie was able to put her experiences in writing. We should never forget what deplorable levels human beings sunk to during those times. But in the midst of all of it, God was there, giving encouragement and strength to those who followed Him and helping them to know “that there is no pit that God is not deeper still.”
This time in Corrie’s life was not wasted. In addition to being able to share with those in the prisons and camps, It prepared her for a life of worldwide evangelism where she would travel to over 64 countries sharing of God’s love and care, telling all of the lesson that we are never alone and He is with us and so much more.
This is a book for adults. I highly recommend it.
March 2, 2018
I read this book understanding that it told of events over the same time as The Hiding Place. I appreciated the additional information, and it helped me understand the timeline more clearly. If you were going to pick just one of the two, I would select The Hiding Place. It tells the story of the family and background of faith, some of which is completely absent from this book. It also tells Betsie's story a bit more clearly. However, reading this book helped me understand better the way Ravensbruck was portrayed in the Hiding Place movie. Probably best read and understood as a companion to The Hiding Place. I would probably read this first and then The Hiding Place. I don't know why, but I kept reading this hoping the outcome would be different. It's like reading about the Titanic and hoping the boat doesn't sink at the end this time.
February 17, 2024
A Detailed and Honest Account
I at first wondered why this book was written since it overlaps with The Hiding Place. But having read it now, I can see that it is more detailed but also shares more of the dark realities of Corrie's imprisonment. It isn't a book for children because she shares so many dark and horrible things that were going on around her. But she also shares the realities of God's goodness and grace. It is a hopeful book that reminds us that although the world can be an evil and horrible place, we can fix our eyes upon Jesus. It isn't as well put together as The Hiding Place. More of a follow up book for people who want to delve more deeply into the same themes of the horror of life in a concentration camp and God's grace.
I at first wondered why this book was written since it overlaps with The Hiding Place. But having read it now, I can see that it is more detailed but also shares more of the dark realities of Corrie's imprisonment. It isn't a book for children because she shares so many dark and horrible things that were going on around her. But she also shares the realities of God's goodness and grace. It is a hopeful book that reminds us that although the world can be an evil and horrible place, we can fix our eyes upon Jesus. It isn't as well put together as The Hiding Place. More of a follow up book for people who want to delve more deeply into the same themes of the horror of life in a concentration camp and God's grace.
February 20, 2021
God is the Victor!!!
This true story captures the love of God and His eternal faithfulness in a powerful way. The horrors of a Nazi concentration camp could not separate Corrie ten Boom and her sister, Betsie, from their Savior. In His gracious, compassionate love, God used these two Dutch ladies to share the Gospel with hundreds of prisoners who, so many of which, are now in their eternal home where all tears and suffering are forever removed from them. A powerful witness to the glory of God who can transform the most evil forms of sin into eternal blessings for those who place their trust in Him.
This true story captures the love of God and His eternal faithfulness in a powerful way. The horrors of a Nazi concentration camp could not separate Corrie ten Boom and her sister, Betsie, from their Savior. In His gracious, compassionate love, God used these two Dutch ladies to share the Gospel with hundreds of prisoners who, so many of which, are now in their eternal home where all tears and suffering are forever removed from them. A powerful witness to the glory of God who can transform the most evil forms of sin into eternal blessings for those who place their trust in Him.
January 8, 2020
A Prisoner And Yet, by Corrie ten Boom, is her true life story of the horrors she endured at Ravensbruck concentration camp, during World War II.
Betrayed and captured for harbouring Jews, Corrie was forced to endure humiliation, sickness, starvation – all sorts of inhumanities that we can’t imagine. And throughout it all, she had the strength of the Lord Jesus to keep on going. She had such a powerful faith.
Her story is a testament to the brutality and shamefulness of war, but also to the love and power of God.
Betrayed and captured for harbouring Jews, Corrie was forced to endure humiliation, sickness, starvation – all sorts of inhumanities that we can’t imagine. And throughout it all, she had the strength of the Lord Jesus to keep on going. She had such a powerful faith.
Her story is a testament to the brutality and shamefulness of war, but also to the love and power of God.
August 14, 2020
Corrie ten Boom combines her story and her faith in this compelling, powerful and poignant book. She is someone I have looked up to over the years. She overcame the most painful of circumstances and learned to let God's love heal her and forgive those who had hurt her immensely. I definitely cried a lot while reading this. I have read it twice now and would truly recommend this to someone who is wanting to learn more about forgiveness, letting go, healing, and above all, God's unending love.
September 21, 2021
Even amidst the wretchedness of the concentration camp, the author finds a way to look at the silver lining. It's a moving book, it exposes the brutality of the regime and spells out in its truest sense what it means to have freedom.
She looked at suffering caused to her as a way to get a deeper understanding of the Lord's suffering on the cross. The book and the experiences mentioned are humbling and fills the heart with gratitude.
She looked at suffering caused to her as a way to get a deeper understanding of the Lord's suffering on the cross. The book and the experiences mentioned are humbling and fills the heart with gratitude.
August 5, 2023
I really hate to give a Corrie ten Boom boom such a low rating. Maybe it was the reader (audiobook), but this particular book made Corrie sound kind of arrogant and holier-than-thou. It also covered basically no new territory from The Hiding Place, and didn't explain the same stories as well as THP did. Its focus was all about Corrie's imprisonment in various jails and camps, without much background. So I'd say skip it and read The Hiding Place instead.
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