My Version of the Facts

by Carla Pekelis, George Hochfield (Translator)

"What did it mean to be a Jewish child in Italy at the beginning of the century?" Carla Pekelis asks herself. "As a matter of fact, nothing, absolutely nothing!" But shortly, as fascism began its march through her homeland and racial laws slowly constricted her world, Carla would learn that being a Jew in Italy might indeed have a profound meaning and dire consequences. Her recollections form an absorbing, nuanced portrait of a life transformed, and a world transfigured, by the relentless currents of history.

368 pages, Hardcover

First published April 20, 2005

Reviews

[Stefanie Robinson · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is the personal memories and experiences of the author, Carla Pekelis. She is a Italian Jew, and recounts what life was like growing up as a member of the Jewish faith and culture and as an Italian. The rise of Fascism in Italy and the anti-Semitism that was predominant had a major impact on her life. I picked this book up not realizing it was about someone in Italy, thinking that it was about a German or Polish girl. I was pleasantly surprised, as I have no read very many accounts like this one. This is very valuable to the historical narrative, and it is important to listen to all the voices we can regarding this subject matter.