50 Children

One Ordinary American Couple's Extraordinary Rescue Mission into the Heart of Nazi Germany

By: Steven Pressman

Narrated by: Robert Fass

Based on the acclaimed HBO documentary, the astonishing true story of how one American couple transported fifty Jewish children from Nazi-occupied Austria to America in 1939—the single largest group of unaccompanied refugee children allowed into the United States—for readers of In the Garden of Beasts and A Train in Winter.

In early 1939, America's rigid immigration laws made it virtually impossible for European Jews to seek safe haven in the United States. As deep-seated anti-Semitism and isolationism gripped much of the country, neither President Roosevelt nor Congress rallied to their aid.

Yet one brave Jewish couple from Philadelphia refused to silently stand by. Risking their own safety, Gilbert Kraus, a successful lawyer, and his stylish wife, Eleanor, traveled to Nazi-controlled Vienna and Berlin to save fifty Jewish children. Steven Pressman brought the Kraus's rescue mission to life in his acclaimed HBO documentary, 50 Children. In this book, he expands upon the story related in the hour-long film, offering additional historical detail and context to offer a rich, full portrait of this ordinary couple and their extraordinary actions.

Drawing from Eleanor Kraus's unpublished memoir, rare historical documents, and interviews with more than a dozen of the surviving children, and illustrated with period photographs, archival materials, and memorabilia, 50 Children is a remarkable tale of personal courage and triumphant heroism that offers a fresh, unique insight into a critical period of history.

I didn't want it to end

This story is the rare combination of history, action, suspense, and pulling at your heart strings. Add the facts that it's a true story that is super well researched and well written and it's the perfect book.

I learned a ton about the early invasion of Austria by the Nazi's. Fascinating details unfolded as the story progressed. Along with all the new historical facts filling my brain, I was rooting for the good guys, booing for the bad guys, and crying during the touching moments.

As the story started to wrap-up, I didn't want it to end. I wanted to hear every detail about the lives of everyone I had met in this great novel.

This book delivers. I loved it and recommend it.

inspiring

Listening to this book, I couldn't help but think about the Muslim refugees fleeing war and being denied entry to the US. This couple and the people who helped were truly amazing....

Heartwarming!

What a wonderful story I couldn’t put it down I had to finish to find out all about the children and their lives and the lives of the classes that assisted them. Great read wonderful narration heartwarming wonderful story.

Kansas reader

Did not enjoy reading about the vacations, first class accommodations of M/M Kraus and fashion choices made by Mrs. Kraus. The true heroes/heroines are the parents of the 50 refugee children. The success of this endeavor by all involved is measured by the fulfilling lives that the majority of the children grew up and experienced.

Just wow

Within 10 min of finishing this, I ordered the hard copy. It’s a must read.