This inspiring book, “The Teacher of Auschwitz” by Wendy Holden, fictionalizes the life of Fredy Hirsch, a remarkable man who showed incredible strength and courage during World War II. In the darkest times, one man’s hope and dreams can be truly inspiring.

I generally love books delving into the lives of those who inspired hope during WWII, and on the whole this book was good.

We follow Fredy through his teens and twenties and learn how he helped many children and friends during his time in the ghetto and concentration camp. As a teacher myself I was moved by his accomplishments. And knowing it was partially true made it that much more impressive.

My only criticism would be is that it seemed that some of the coincidences of running into the same people over and over in different places and getting away with more than most people seemed almost unbelievable. I would have to stop and try to decide if I thought an event or meeting could really happen or if it was something the author used as fiction.

Overall another good book relating to the horrors of history and the Holocaust that I would recommend.

I enjoy reading WWII novels, and especially enjoyed The Teacher of Auschwitz. Especially after visiting Auschwitz, I was excited to read this novel. Too be so driven to protect the children, and to put them instead of saving yourself is so heartwarming. It is so heartwretching to read what these Jewish adults and especially children lived through. Freddy Hirsch who was a dedicated teacher and did everything to keep the childrens spirits up, educate them, and kept their thoughts from hunger. Read this novel to find out what is Freddy's fate. Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read this novel prior to its publication.

This book was heart wrenchingly beautiful. at times I had to put it down because it was tough emotionally to readThank you so much for letting me read! I love a good historical fiction and this did not miss! I really enjoyed the writing style and the characters! Can't wait to read more of this authors work in the future!

This was such a great story. The strength that Fredy had in order to help children is amazing. I love seeing the stories of those that were inside being told. The fact that he is not known but had such an impact on making the camps a little more survivable for children is sad. I hope his name lives on. This is a hard story to read but definitely worth it.

Thank you so much for letting me read! I love a good historical fiction and this did not miss! I really enjoyed the writing style and the characters! Can't wait to read more of this authors work in the future!

Thank you NetGalley and Publisher for allowing me to read and review this book.

I very much enjoyed this book. The writing was great and the characters were well developed. I hope to read more from this author in the future.

During the horror of WWII, Fredy Hirsch did everything in his power to protect and advocate for the youth of Theresienstadt and Auschwitz. During his early life, he discovered a love for athletics. As a teenager, he began working with the youth promoting a healthy and active lifestyle. As part of the Jewish Council, he was sent to Theresienstadt early, to set up a program for youth. There he risked his life for his children. After several years, Freddy was sent to the Family Camp in Auschwitz. There, he set up a special barracks for young children. He imposed rules and order amidst unthinkable horror.

This was an amazing and powerful story. Fredy Hirsch is a hero and role model. He really came to life in this story. He was both realistic and lovable. The story alternated between Theresienstadt and his early life. I wish the novel had been presented in a linear fashion, the back and forth was not needed. Overall, 4 out of 5 stars.