great book. The mom reminded me of my grandma - a woman that endures unbelievable hardship but just keeps on. Lives a thrifty life but never wanting for anything except to understand. I could relate to the daughters anger - you never know what your grandparents or parents have endured and how they try to insulate you from the pain and hardness of the world - in the meantime - if they could have told you more a little at a time when you should have been ready for it so that you have an understanding of why they are the way they are. I am shocked, horrified at what the jews endured during and after the war but it is the kind of story that you have to learn so as not to repeat.