Dachau Song: The Twentieth-Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper

by Paul F. Cummins

The odyssey of Herbert Zipper covers most of the 20th century. Born in Vienna in 1904, his life has spanned three centuries: from the 19th century world of the Habsburg Empire, through the 20th century horrors of Dachau, Buchenwald, and the Manila of World War II, to the emerging 21st century in China. Throughout his remarkable journey Zipper, a composer, conductor, concentration camp survivor, and educator, has maintained a spirit of achievement and optimism that contradicts his experiences. This is a story of the triumph of human will and the human spirit and, as such, is both fascinating and instructive.

308 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 1992

Reviews

[Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had a lot of reasons to read this book. I toured Dachau this summer, live near the Colburn School here in LA and have a high school friend that works at the Crossroads School. All these places played a big roll in Herbert Zipper's life. Great read and very well researched. Truly a very accomplished man with unique life experiences.

[Kathleen O'Nan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Any weaknesses in the writing of this book are compensated for by the amazing story. Herbert Zipper's life was full of incredible acts of bravery and selflessness colored with an ever-optimistic view of the potential of human beings. I'm glad I read the book!