YLA Book Club

Determined

We had the privilege of discussing ‘Determined: The Story of Holocaust Survivor Avraham Perlmutter’ at our most recent YLA Book Club on February 1st, 2023. The discussion featured Avraham’s daughter, Keren Perlmutter, PH.D., award-winning scientist, filmmaker, publisher, and public speaker. Joining Keren were Henk and Jerome Beijers, grandson and great-grandson of Peter and Gertrude Beijers, the couple who hid Avraham in the Netherlands and recognized as Righteous Among the Nations.

Event Chairs: Nicole Garay and Josh Perlmutter

Book Description:

Avraham Perlmutter was just ten years old when his life changed forever.

In 1938, the Nazis arrive in Avraham’s hometown of Vienna, Austria. Desperate to help their son survive, his parents send him to the Netherlands. But the invading German army soon follows. During the ensuing war-torn years, young Avraham braves harrowing captures, daring escapes, torturous hiding, and heartbreaking losses. Yet he also experiences the goodness of humanity through the strangers who help him.

Surviving the Holocaust takes ingenuity, guts, and sheer determination—all of which he calls on again, when he fights to establish the State of Israel during its War of Independence.

And when mere existence isn’t enough, Avraham moves to the United States to continue his education and pursue his dreams.

Determined takes the reader on an unforgettable journey filled with suspense and danger. But it is more than just a remarkable story of survival—it is a testament to human kindness, even in the darkest of hours, and to the achievements made possible through relentless perseverance.

This unique autobiography will inspire readers of all ages—spanning fans of historical memoirs to readers seeking an uplifting perspective on a life fulfilled.

Click HERE to purchase the book.

The primary purpose of the YLA Book Club is to foster greater understanding and deeper discussion about the Holocaust and the contemporary challenges we face in Holocaust remembrance.