A Tale of Two Soldiers: The Unexpected Friendship between a WWII American Jewish Sniper and a German Military Pilot

This book is a must read. I simply couldn't put it down. The first person narrative is very effective and captures the imagination of the reader right from the start. There is a freshness and almost naivety to the beginning chapters and an emotional clarity in describing war experiences and later events that suggest that while edited, this is not a ghost written text. The book is a testament to human resourcefulness and resilience in confronting and overcoming the kinds of extreme adversity during war that most of us can only contemplate in terms of worst nightmares. In my view, it is also a memoir about the universalism of the human spirit as reflected in the strong and permanent loving bond that was formed between two young men who technically were enemies. The book poignantly relates the family background of Max, a young Jewish American soldier, the horrendous World War II combat experiences he witnessed and endured during the Battle of the Bulge, his capture by the Germans and incarceration in a POW camp, and ultimate escape with the help of and together with Karl, a wounded Luftwaffe pilot. Max's leadership skills and ability to quickly size up a dangerous situation and respond accordingly are impressive to read about. The information about Karl's background and experiences adds a significant depth to the book and a good understanding of his reasons for wanting to escape Germany. The description, as related later to Max, of the family reaction when the telegram was received that Max was officially declared missing in action was emotionally overwhelming for me to read. The fact that Max and Karl remained close brothers for the rest of their lives and that their children and grandchildren also have been encircled in the strong bond of love and friendship between them was very touching as well.

This is a simple, beautiful story of the power of friendship in the face of the horror of war. Max and Karl were both able to escape by helping each other and together they forged a wonderful bond that endured throughout their lives. A Jewish soldier and a soldier in Hitler's nazi army. I met Max's daughter Nina in a Yiddish class and after hearing about her father, I knew I had to read the book. The story restores your faith in people.

The simply written style may be a little rough but does make the story more immediate and powerful. It is very touching and emotional. I read it in a single session and could not put it down.

Should be made into a movie, story of enemies becoming friends, what we need more of in this day and age

It was a heartwarming story of a big hearted soldier and his life long friend. Good lessons of on living a good life and love.

This book is a very fast read. Not written as well as most books but then again it was written by a novice. It makes you feel like this is your father telling you the story of his life. Beautiful tribute to two beautiful men.

This was a fantastic read. So engaging that you didn't want to put it down. And then the next day, you schedule time in your busy day to read more. The lasting friendship that began during trouble times tugs at the heartstrings.

friendship and love has no boundaries neither in religion, background and countries; this is beautifully illustrated in a short well written account of a soldier's tale.