Lovers In Auschwitz: A True Story by Keren Blankfeld
Journalist Keren Blankfeld’s debut work, “Lovers in Auschwitz,” is a gripping biographical account of two survivors who found an unlikely romance in the darkest of places.
The book follows Zippi Spitzer and David Wisnia, two young prisoners who found solace in each other before the war’s end sent them on diverging paths. Blankfeld’s narrative highlights humanity’s capacity for perseverance and compassion when faced with the unimaginable.
Throughout the war, Zippi endeavored not only to survive but to protect others. In Auschwitz-Birkenau, her diligence secured her an administrative position. She used this relative independence to save lives, secretly arranging safer work assignments to shield fellow prisoners from execution. It was here she met David; like many others in hellish captivity, they found comfort in stolen moments. As the war neared its end, they promised to reunite at the Jewish Community Center in Warsaw.
However, their plans faltered. Following a harrowing escape, David encountered a regiment of Allied soldiers. His skills as a translator made him an asset to the troop, and he joined their post-war campaign across Europe rather than returning to Warsaw. While Zippi found purpose through resistance within the camp, David found his by helping dismantle the Nazi regime.
Music serves as a guiding theme throughout the book. Section headings are titled as musical movements, and Blankfeld illustrates how the Auschwitz orchestra was used to divert prisoners’ minds from certain death.
Later in life, David found purpose and healing through singing and sharing his story for audiences at synagogues and libraries.
Despite its title, “Lovers in Auschwitz” is not a traditional romance story but rather a testament to overcoming insurmountable odds. It is a story of finding purpose in the world even under the most harrowing circumstances. This book will appeal to readers of history, particularly World War II or the Holocaust, and anyone looking for an inspirational tale of survival. Visit wcls.org to find “Lovers in Auschwitz” and other similarly themed stories.
“Lovers in Auschwitz” is the February selection for the Books & Bites book group. Join Books & Bites at the Blaine Library at 1 p.m. Friday, February 20 for a time of community and lively conversation.
Jonathan Jakobitz is an avid reader and the branch manager of Blaine Public Library.
(Originally published in The Northern Light, Wednesday, February 4, 2026.)