The Frankfurt Kitchen: Forty-One Stories of Growing Up in Post-World War II West Germany

by Heidi Laird

The author grew up in Germany during the postwar era, when the United States evolved from a military occupation force to a peacetime cultural power, wielding vast influence in the world through its example as a country aspiring to great ideals, like freedom, equality, inclusion, acceptance of diversity, and generosity.

This book tells the personal story of how the image of America shaped the author's youthful ideas about the world she wanted to live in, as she struggled to make sense of her complicated heritage as the daughter of a Jewish father and a Christian mother, and as an adolescent inheriting the aftermath of the Nazi reign of terror.

Genres: History, Germany

308 pages, Paperback

Published November 11, 2021

Reviews

[Carolyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was alright. Interesting point of view from an actual German family tolerating Hitler and his regime. Those people also suffered loss and extreme difficulty. The children and their memories are interesting because they think of all that more as an adventure. What was most astounding to read this review of a life from the point o view of German survivors is such an opposite picture here in the United States. We also were frightened and anxious about the world at the time. Probably more than these children. To be attacked even with the possibility encroaching the other side offers no comfort and no pay back like these children saw. Schooling continued, playtime was a constant, special experiences were expected. The main surprise to me as a Steinway owner was the way in which this held the highest priority for the family, love the children, the husband, every single thing. We need to be reminded that things are not permanent. Love is and continues through generations. It might b e much more appreciated by readers interested in that mindset and the way these people survived.

[Ann Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this, especially now, as we live in Frankfurt. It's an intelligently-written memoir, thoughtful and real. The writing is good. The sentences are LONG, but well-crafted. I learned a lot about this area and the post-war period. I've already purchased Heidi Laird's next book. This is a worthwhile read. I doesn't read quickly--each chapter or essay tells a story. I read one or two essays in a sitting, then thought about them and this place.

[Valerie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this series of stories tracing the life of the author. She weaves in reflections of her younger self, details about historical events and people, and her own musings about our current state of affairs in the US.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

Her storytelling style was reporterly yet full of empathy for the people around her. I’m happy she took the time to write these stories down.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Of special interest to me because of my family history.