DOC Witness: Images of Auschwitz by David Olere in History

Review

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Amazing drawings and the narrative is incredibleBy P. BlevinsWitness: Images of Auschwitz is by Alexandre Oler; son of the artist; and illustrated by David Olere; Survivor of Auschwitz. It is a difficult book to read and to look at. The illustrations were drawn by David Olere right after his liberation from Auschwitz. He was one of the few surviving members of the Sonderkommando. David’s drawings and paintings are horrific reminders of what happened to Jews in Auschwitz. The drawings are so haunting and so beautiful it is difficult to look at them and yet difficult not to look at them. His original drawings and paintings in this book are in Yad Vashem and the Ghetto Fighter’s House Museum in Israel. Eighteen oil paintings are on display at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York City while other paintings are in various museums in France. This book is a tribute to him and his works as well as to his story and the story of millions of Jews who suffered under the Nazi regime.The poems and written material accompanying the drawings and paintings was were written by his son; Alexandre Oler. Through his words; the drawings become more alive and the feelings expressed are quite similar to those portrayed by other survivors. In a few words; he expresses a multitude of meanings and emotions. The book was brilliantly put together by Alexandre.I feel privileged to have read this book and to have seen Auschwitz through David Olere’s eyes and feel the emotions through Alexandre Oler’s words. It is a terrific tribute to those who lost their lives in Auschwitz.4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. You can't "rate" this book.By CowgirlThe drawings and verses in this well made book cannot be rated on a love to hate scale. As soon as I opened this book; other emotions come to the surface: Sorrow; shame; grief and anger. I'm unable to assimilate the book from cover to cover at one time. I must be put aside until I can stand to look at it again.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great book received in perfect shape and on time!By reglisseGreat Book! Fantastic testimony to the atrocities of WWII. This painter is just amazing and should deserve better recognition.We received the book in excellent condition and the timing was perfect. Thank you!