Saving the Fragments - Hardcover

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YA The author of Fragments of Isabella (Crowell, 1978) continues her tale of concentration camp survival. Here, she and two of her sisters escape from the Death March from Auschwitz to Bergen-Belsen. Fragments of her memories of this liberation pepper the pages of this slim book, linked loosely together in chronological order. Just being free, even though still cold and hungry, was such an incredible experience that her mental happiness outweighed any of the physical discomforts that she and her sisters still faced. Whether Leitner was walking across Germany, riding a packed train to Odessa or sailing in a cargo ship to America, readers can feel her continually pinching herself in disbelief of her new freedom. Her hatred of Mengele and Hitler is obvious, while her concern for missing family members becomes a continual sorrow. The upbeat style of her writing assures readers of her desire to put the past behind her and get on with her life. This is a book that will be in constant circulation. Pam Spencer, Mount Vernon High School Library, Fairfax, Va.
Copyright 1986 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Leitner's first work, Fragments of Isabella, was a memoir of the Holocaust itself. This second volume is a moving narration of her experiences from the moment of her liberation from Auschwitz to the early days of her arrival in the United States. It brings home to the reader, poignantly and gracefully, the enormous difficulty for survivors in returning to the ``normal'' world. It takes us through Leitner's liberation from numbness and anger to the first signs of the return of emotion. The book is beautifully written. Each survivor's memoir is a special testament of courage. Leitner shares with us the strength and love she and her sisters brought to their experience. Sheila R. Herstein, City Coll. Lib., CUNY
Copyright 1985 Reed Business Information, Inc.