Grasping at Straws: Letters from the Holocaust

More about the book

When Germany’s National Socialists rose to power, countless Jews sought to emigrate, facing increasing difficulties in obtaining visas. Many were willing to grasp even the most tenuous opportunities to escape. This narrative centers on the Ichenhäusers, a Jewish-German family from Cologne with deep historical roots. They enjoyed a rich urban lifestyle and cultural vibrancy, with three sons serving in the German army during World War I. However, the Nazis did not discriminate based on assimilation or military service; they targeted all Jews. The Ichenhäusers’ harrowing quest for escape is primarily conveyed through letters written by family members and friends before and during the war, illustrating the tragic decisions that shaped their destinies. These poignant first-person accounts are complemented by a photographic record, featuring over 100 carefully preserved images. By compiling their stories, the author provides a valuable resource for historians and compassionate readers alike, shedding light on the personal experiences of those who faced unimaginable choices during this dark chapter in history.