The Nazis Knew My Name: A Remarkable Story of Survival and Courage in Auschwitz by Magda Hellinger is a compelling memoir that recounts the extraordinary experiences of a woman who not only survived the horrors of Auschwitz but also worked to save lives within the camp.
Magda Hellinger, a Jewish woman from Slovakia, was deported to Auschwitz at the age of 25. In a cruel twist of fate, she was forced into a leadership position as a prisoner functionary, tasked with overseeing her fellow inmates. While these positions were often associated with brutality, Magda used her role to protect and assist others, navigating the razor-thin line between cooperation and resistance.
Through courage, ingenuity, and compassion, Magda managed to save countless lives while enduring the daily atrocities of the camp. Her remarkable story highlights the moral complexities faced by those in positions of enforced authority and showcases her strength in maintaining humanity amidst unimaginable suffering.
Written in collaboration with Maya Lee, her daughter, this memoir offers an intimate and poignant account of resilience, courage, and the will to preserve life in the darkest of times. It serves as a testament to the power of hope and the enduring spirit of those who faced the unimaginable during the Holocaust.
