The Tattooist of Auschwitz

Heather Morris

245 pages

As the first transport from Slovakia makes its way to Auschwitz concentration camp in 1942, Lale Sokolov immediately stands out to the other prisoners for his composed appearance and outwardly assured manner. In the camp, he is looked up to, looked out for and put to work in the privileged position of Tätowierer - tattooist - marking his fellow inmates with their identification numbers, forever. One of them is a young woman, Gita, who steals his heart at first glance. His life given new purpose, Lale does his best through the struggle and suffering to use his position for good. This story, full of beauty and hope, is based on years of interviews author Heather Morris conducted with real-life Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov. It is heart-wrenching, illuminating, and unforgettable. 'Morris climbs into the dark miasma of war and emerges with an extraordinary tale of the power of love' - Leah Kaminsky