Cilkas Journey- Heather Morris-historical ficiton (based on fact)

A story of one woman’s determination to see life through as she intended and not by

the dictation of others. This is based on a true story given to the author by the

Tattooist of Auschwitz Lale Sokolov. Cilka was “chosen” in Auschwitz as a prostitute, something

she had no say in whatsoever. She did what he had to do in order not only to survive

but to live. When the camp was liberated by the Russians she stood out as she wasn’t

as thin as the others and hence must have been in league with the enemy. She is taken

to Vorkuta in Siberia, sentenced to fifteen years. Yet again each and every day is a

battle for survival not just against those holding her captive but against the other

inmates. As with Auschwitz it is the survival of the fittest and dog eat dog

mentality. Any weakness can lead to death one way or another. A moving, thought

provoking story of  a woman against all odds. A woman who Lale said was the

bravest person he had ever known. I can't recommend this highly enough.

One to stay with me for ever. 

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