Introduction

In 1939, the author's family left Wisconsin for her parents' homeland, Germany, arriving two weeks before the beginning of World War II. The ensuing events in her life are interwoven with memories of America, and Erika's book. Through a young girl's eyes, we experience the terror of bombings, witness prejudice and persecution of Jews, feel fear and sorrow of losing loved ones and possessions, the separation of families, but also the healing serenity of country life. The story is unique in her personal experiences, and familiar to millions who have lived through a war.