Displaced Persons

Growing Up American After the Holocaust

By: Joseph Berger

Narrated by: George Guidall

In this eloquent and glorious memoir, New York Times reporter Joseph Berger reflects upon his days growing up in Manhattan’s Upper West Side following World War II. Berger and his family, Polish Jews who survived the Holocaust, arrived in New York in 1950. Their fascinating story of adaptation in a strange, new world speaks universally of the trials millions of American immigrants have faced.

©2001 Joseph Berger (P)2002 Recorded Books, LLC

Best type of memoir

I alternate my listening between fiction and non-fiction. For non-fiction listening I enjoy memoirs and autobiographies and this is one of the best I have heard. I enjoyed this book because of the combination of personal stories mixed with history. You don't have to be Jewish to enjoy this book although I do think there will some extra resonance for Jewish listeners in this book.

Wonderful!

Riveting & hilarious. So well written, you can "see" the people & the places of their lives in your mind & welcome them in to steal your heart!

A Clear Pane in a Broken Window

I selected this title because I wanted to better understand the life of the refugee, the Syrian, the Latino, etc.of today. But through this story, Berger tenderly conveys and Guidall masterfully relates something unique to the Jew, a people for whom my heart freshly breaks. I am in awe of Berger's family tribe as it blooms from its holocaust-tortured seeds. Through his keen observations, capable journalistic skill, and obvious familial love, I was able to become for a bit a member of this family. He made it personal.

Cross generational talent

Amazing story of a WWII family from a displaced persons camp to NYC. Four generations unfold through this incredible tale of survival and thriving from the 20th into the 21st Centuries.

Great memoir

I really enjoyed listening to this book. Not only is the story fascinating but the narrator is the best.