Forty Autumns

 Forty Autumns by Nina Willner

Following the end of WWII, the Soviets took control of Eastern Germany, establishing a communist state that shattered lives and divided families.  This is the story of the Willner family's experience during the forty year period. Eldest daughter Hanna was able to escape and create a fulfilling ife for herself in the West and ultimately in America. Her freedom, however, came at a price; separation from her beloved family. An inspiring account of courage, hope, love, and survival, this is a sobering look into life behind the Berlin Wall.

this book should be required reading! If you want a clear picture of what life under a communist regime in a police state looks like, look no further. Can you imagine buying a new car, but having to wait 13 years for it to be delivered? Can you imagine suddenly being separated from loved ones and seeing them again for forty years? Writing letters to them that are intercepted and never delivered? How about having your property that had been in your family for generations confiscated by the state? The "fun" goes on and on.  As sad as the Willner family's situation was, there is much to be learned from it, not the least being how sweet freedom truly is. I loved this book and very highly recommend it!