Child of War

Main Themes and Topics

Child of War by Nachman Seltzer is a narrative deeply rooted in the harrowing yet remarkable experiences of a Hasidic family during World War II in Budapest. Central themes include survival, identity, and resilience amidst the chilling backdrop of the Holocaust. The book poignantly explores how luck, divine providence, and the remarkable abilities of Friedman's family members played crucial roles in their survival. Key themes also encompass the power of family, the will to adapt under dire circumstances, and the multifaceted strategies employed for survival, including deception and quick thinking.

The book highlights the intricacies of identity as the family navigates the dangerous reality of posing as non-Jews, and it delves into the psychological impact of such deceptions, particularly on Friedman as a child. It also touches on themes of courage and ingenuity, as exemplified by the resourcefulness of Friedman's father and the daring actions of his aunts, creating a narrative that is as much about the spirit of resistance as it is about survival.

Writing Style and Tone

Seltzer's writing in Child of War is characterized by a narrative style that is both engaging and compassionate. The tone is one of sincerity and rawness, capturing the perilous reality of Friedman's experiences while providing glimpses into the emotional and psychological nuances of living under constant threat. The memoir is structured in a way that personalizes the broader historical horror of the Holocaust, focusing on the day-to-day realities and the extraordinary measures taken for survival. The narrative is both informative and emotional, balancing historical context with personal anecdotes to deliver a compelling and humanistic account.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

Child of War recounts the childhood experiences of Friedman, who was born in 1936 in Budapest, Hungary. As the Nazi regime took hold across Europe, Friedman's Hasidic family employed a combination of ingenuity, deception, and sheer willpower to survive. This included obtaining fake documents, resorting to masquerades, and leveraging divine providence amidst the surrounding dangers. The family was divided into various hiding scenarios: Friedman's immediate family posed as non-Jews on the Buda side of the city, while different family members were hidden in locations ranging from convents to the countryside and even a mental hospital. Through these accounts, the memoir offers an intimate exploration of their survival strategies and the day-to-day realities of living under the threat of the Arrow Cross until the eventual liberation by Russian forces.