Things changed for young Frank Levy when his mother, who had read Mein Kampf and had taken it seriously, uprooted her German Jewish family and settled them in Palestine in 1936 in spite of some family ridicule. Frank adapted well into the life of his new homeland although it was harder for his parents. It was the time of Arab riots, Jewish underground fighting groups, and illegal Jewish immigrants trying to land by boat in Tel Aviv. Meanwhile, in Europe, World War II was closing in on the family left behind. Frank’s parents decided to move to America but were afraid that as Frank was devoted to his new land, he would refuse to accompany them so they told him it was only for a vacation. When he learned they were there to stay, he resolved that he would never again be at the mercy of someone else’s decision making but choose his own path from that time forward.
Marilyn, the wife Frank married after the death of his first wife, tells her husband’s story here with great feeling and deep respect. She tells of his time both in Israel and America and describes both business and family events. She focuses mainly on character traits such as resilience and optimism and portrays him as a role model from whom others can learn as they navigate the intricacies of life.
Recommended for ages 12 – 16.
