The Past Is Myself (Classics of World War II: The Secret War)

Book by Christabel Bielenberg

Clear enunciation and accurate accents by narrator Sheila Mitchell enable the listener clearly to follow the many characters and episodes described in this autobiography of a British woman who marries and lives as a German citizen under Nazi rule. Bielenberg conveys her "belief in the triumph of good over evil," yet admits that at one point she refused to harbor a half-Jewish couple or disturb her own safe haven. Throughout, Bielenberg proves she is an astute observer of human behavior and offers much wry commentary. Ironically though, she muses, "What makes men sit tight and do nothing?" This is an effectively composed story that conveys Bielenberg's confessed "dogged determination to survive." Any public library with collections in history and autobiography will find an audience for this production.
Frances Yates, Prince George's P.L., Laurel, Md.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.