CHRISTCHURCH: Vivienne Spiegel Holocaust Survivor, August 7, 7.30 pm

But they became separated.

What would happen to everyone?  Would they be discovered?  Would she ever see her parents again?

You are invited to hear Vivianne’s harrowing story of how she survived the war and built a new life in its aftermath.

Although Vivianne has never written a book, copies of the powerful memoir of Holocaust survivor, Max Eisen, “By Chance Alone” will be available for purchase. Cash or cheque only.  $30 per copy.

“[An] extraordinary memoir.” (Edmonton Journal)

“An astounding narrative . . . a timely examination of the human capacity for cruelty, ignorance, and depravity. It is also a message of hope, a cri de coeur, and a reminder that small acts of kindness can have an immeasurable impact on another person’s life.” (Quill & Quire)

“Max Eisen’s important, timely memoir reminds us that horror does not happen overnight and that no one is immune to it. By Chance Alone is a testimony to the human experience of needless, senseless suffering. May we learn from it.” (Marina Nemat, author of Prisoner of Tehran)

“By Chance Alone is a story of great pathos, and told with directness and simplicity, of the sufferings and grief and fear of one boy in a terrible time and a terrible place.” (Rex Murphy)

Such were the overwhelming odds stacked against him, Max Eisen should not have survived. Chance, some good people, and not a little luck all played their part, but his dogged determination to overcome the lethal physical and mental onslaught is truly remarkable.” (Stephen D. Smith, Executive Director, USC Shoah Foundation)

Max Eisen reveals, with clarity and honesty, his personal resilience and determination to survive against impossible odds, and bear witness to the horrors of Auschwitz. His humanity and generosity shine through in this powerful and page-turning memoir.” (Barbara J. Falk, PhD, MSL Associate Professor, Department of Defence Studies Canadian Forces College/Royal Military College of Canada Barbara Falk, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Defence Studies, Canadian Forces College/Royal Military Colleg)

“A gripping, harrowing read, chock-a-block with pulse-quickening detail.” (Canadian Jewish News)

This event is a collaboration between NZFOI and the Zionist Federation of New Zealand.