Helen Lewis, A Time to Speak

REST IN PEACE HELEN

If a book about Nazi concentration camps can be called wonderful then this is it. Why? Helen Lewis's story is a tribute to the strength of the human spirit. To survive is one thing, to go on and build a successful life and to contribute to her newly embraced community is another.

I read this book in two sittings. Despite tears of sorrow I enjoyed this book. It left me feeling uplifted by the wonders that can issue from a hell on earth. Well written and concise this is a valuable historical and social record. I am only sad that I could not inform the author of the emotions she stirred in me.

A time to speak is a fantastic book. Helen Lewis writes her experiences of the Holocaust in such a way that is without self pity and self glorification. What she endured together with the matter of fact way in which she writes brought tears to my eyes. I was lucky enough to met Helen Lewis in Belfast and saw for myself her prisioner number crudely tattoed onto her arm. She is a charming and intelligent lady and A Time To Speak is one of the best books i have ever read. She talks about her life before, during and after Auschwitz and also recounts some of the kindness shown to her by Nazi Officers and the betrayal by her good friend. For those who have an interest in The Holocaust then this book is a MUST! My only regret is that i did not have the book at the time i met her to get her to sign it !