The Ochberg Orphans and the Horrors from Whence They Came
by
"The Rescue in 1921 of 181 Jewish Orphans by Isaac Ochberg, the Representative of the South African Jewish Community, from the Horrors of the 'pale of Settlement'"
Popularity
4.44 / 5
* A book's popularity is determined by how it compares to all other books on this website.
Where to buy?
Buy from Amazon* If you buy this book through the link above, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
The Ochberg Orphans and the Horrors from Whence They Came by
Details
Perspective:
Civilian
True Story:
Yes
Biography:
No
Region:
Europe
Page Count:
640
Published Date:
2011
ISBN13:
9780987106308
Description
Brief Summary
The Ochberg Orphans and the Horrors from Whence They Came is a significant dive into a lesser-known chapter of Jewish history, distinct from the Holocaust yet equally harrowing. The book elucidates the severe challenges faced by Jews in the ‘Pale of Settlement’ due to war, pogroms, starvation, and disease between 1914 and 1922. It narrates the rescue mission spearheaded by Isaac Ochberg, focusing on the lives of 181 Jewish orphans he saved and subsequently relocated to South Africa. These children were distributed between the Cape Jewish Orphanage and the South African Jewish Orphanage, where their stories unfold in rich, evocative detail captured in this testament to hope and survival.
Main Themes and Topics
Central to the book is the theme of resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. It chronicles both the abject horrors experienced by Jews in Eastern Europe and the compassion displayed by Jewish communities in the USA, Canada, Palestine, and South Africa, who extended their support. The narrative is also an exploration of memory and inheritance, as the book seeks to preserve and memorialize the stories of the Ochberg Orphans, ensuring their legacy endures through the generations.
Writing Style and Tone
The writing style of the book combines historical exposition with personal narratives, providing readers with both a macro and micro view of the events. The tone is reverent and earnest, paying homage to the resilience of the Ochberg Orphans and the benevolence of those who aided them. The book’s structure, divided into firsthand accounts and the stories of descendants, creates a tapestry rich with historical and personal insights.
Awards and Recognition
Although not specified in the book description, the legacy and importance of Isaac Ochberg's actions have been acknowledged within Jewish circles and through various forms of remembrance. This includes the efforts of institutions like Arcadia and Oranjia, which continue to support Jewish children in need.
Criticism
One potential area of criticism might be the book's depth due to its extensive detail, which, while enriching, could be daunting for readers unfamiliar with the historical context. Additionally, the focus on personal narratives might limit broader historical analysis.
