Positives The reviews consistently praise the book as a deeply personal and meticulously researched account of two Jewish grandmothers' lives during Hitler's war and Stalin's peace. Readers found the prose engaging, philosophical, and often emotionally powerful, seamlessly blending individual experiences with significant historical events. The author's non-judgemental approach to the difficult choices her grandmothers made for survival is frequently highlighted as a strength. Many reviewers considered it an essential read, offering profound insights into antisemitism, totalitarian regimes, and the remarkable resilience of the human spirit, making complex history accessible through vivid personal narratives.
Negatives While largely positive, some readers found the book's narrative structure challenging, particularly in the initial chapters. The frequent switching between the grandmothers' stories and the introduction of numerous family members sometimes led to confusion about who was who, making it difficult to connect with the narrative early on. A few reviewers also noted the absence of maps or photographs, which they felt would have enhanced the historical context and character identification. One reviewer described the writing as disorganized, though this was not a widespread criticism.
Conclusion Despite these occasional structural challenges, the overwhelming consensus is that this is a highly significant and impactful book. It is strongly recommended for readers interested in 20th-century European history, particularly life in the Soviet Union, the persecution of Jews under both Nazi and Stalinist regimes, and personal stories of survival and resilience. Those who appreciate nuanced biographical accounts that explore moral complexities and the human spirit's endurance against extreme adversity will find this a deeply rewarding and essential read, offering timely lessons on freedom and totalitarianism.
