Title: German Life in WWII and Beyond: How Civilians Survived and Rebuilt
Author: Dr. Ilse-Rose Warg
Publisher: Genre Library Solutions
ISBN: 979-8330273027
Pages: 406
Genre: History of Germany / War /Non-fiction
Reviewer: Anthony Avina 

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Whether or not a person considers themselves a history buff or just casually looks back on history with interest, there is hardly a person in the world who does not know the general series of events which made up World War II. WWII was one of the most tragic and most defining moments in the twentieth century, both leading up to, during, and after the war itself. It impacted everyone around the world, including the citizens both engulfed in the mad fervor of and those trapped in the harsh realities of the German state.

It is the way Germany and its people were impacted by WWI, WWII, and the Cold War that drives author Dr. Ilse-Rose Warg’s German Life in WWII and Beyond: How Civilians Survived and Rebuilt. The book is a blend of memoir non-fiction, history, and historical fiction, utilizing a German pastime known as Stammtisch to explore how different groups of people are. Be it by their profession, their political leanings, or their economic status, how they were impacted by the rise of Hitler and the Nazi party, and the aftermath of both World Wars hit these people close to home and changed their perspectives on life. Also, how the internal conflicts that arose in the wake of those wars, while exploring the personal impact to the author’s life growing up in this era of history.

One of the more unique and compelling twists on a historical driven book, the author did an incredible job of balancing the historical facts and research with the author’s personal family life and history, and the narrative components that highlighted the experiences of the average German citizens. The concept of the Stammtisch was so unique and fascinating to read about, and did an incredible job of highlighting everything from the ways in which Hitler was perceived by the German population at the time of his rise, how his growing power trip divided people, and how it affected the way people interacted and spoke with one another in general.

This is the perfect read for those who enjoy historical driven narratives and non-fiction reads, especially those that are interested in WWI, WWII, the Cold War and personal non-fiction memoirs that explore life growing up during these historical moments in time. Another aspect of the book which really stood out was the personal exploration of life after the wars, including how Germany and its people were divided up by the Allied forces and how it impacted everyday citizens, especially families. The difference between Russian, British, and American zones were deeply explored by the author, and the honest depiction the author brought to the book really kept the reader engaged thoroughly.

The powerful imagery in both the writing style of the author and the images scattered throughout brought these important periods of history to life, and the heartbreaking realities of war in general became a central theme that drove home the author’s story greatly. A moving account for readers who seek to understand not only the tragedy of war but the resilience of humanity.