Restitution, by Kathy Kacer (giveaway)

Restitution: A Family's Fight for Their Heritage Lost in the Holocaust is another title I picked up at the Book Expo, courtesy of Second Story Press. It was also one of the first I read upon my return, but unfortunately it wasn't immediately available in the U.S. However, I'm happy to say that you can now find a copy of Restitution here in the states and I'm pleased to make the introduction.

Restitution tells the true story of the Reeser family's escape from the Nazis from their home country of Czechoslovakia. An influential Jewish family, Victor Rieser (the family changed their name after immigrating from their country) found it hard to believe that their family would be persecuted by the Nazi regime. He refused to believe that a loyal Czech citizen would be brutalized or mistreated by their own government. His children, Karl and Hana listened to the debates between their father and mother, Marie, as they argued over whether or not to move their family and finances outside of the country. Thankfully, Helen had the foresight (and stubborn will) to begin to move the family money to foreign accounts to ensure that her family would be provided for upon their eventual relocation. She was a smart and insightful woman and her efforts paid off for the family when they eventually did flee their home country.

However, there were four things that the family had to leave behind: four works of art that hung on the walls of the family home.

Restitution tells the story of the family's efforts to retrieve these family heirlooms in post-war Czechoslovakia. The book documents their journey and struggle, taking the reader between the 1940's and 1990. It is a moving story of courage and determination. Kacer writes in a compelling manner, easing the reader along and keeping them fascinated in the Reeser family's journey.

I absolutely loved this book. I thought it was well-told and documents a different aspect of World War II - stolen art. (For another work on this topic, you might want to check out my review of The Monuments Men over at 5 Minutes for Books.) Of course, I love World War II history and so I eagerly engaged with the emotions of Karl Reeser as he sought to obtain what was stolen from him by a hateful regime. This book is a winner and one worth checking out.

I am happy to let you know that Second Story Press has offered a giveaway copy to one Reading to Know reader! Would you like to win a copy? Simply leave a comment below to be entered into the drawing. This contest is open to U.S. and Canadian residents. The contest will remain open through Thursday, October 14th.

This contest is now closed. The winner, selected by random.org, is #23 - Wanda. Congratulations!

In the meantime, if you enjoy a good memoir or an interesting history lesson, check this one out.