National Network for Equitable Library Service

This novel offers a new point of entry to examine one of the greatest evils ever to face humanity. In his years fighting the Russians and attempting afterward to survive the Gulag, Meissner recounts a life lived in perseverance and atonement. Wracked with guilt and shame, both for himself and for Germany, the grandfather explains his dark rationale, exults in the courage of others, and blurs the boundaries of right and wrong.