Dora-Doreen

This memoir is told by a loving granddaughter in her granny’s voice, 1st person. A brilliant choice because the reader is completely transported to her world in Norway, Sweden, and in the US starting in the 1900’s to now-a grand life of 105 years. It’s impossible not to be captivated with Dora’s life—the good luck and bad luck, the enormous acts of courage and the less fortunate attempts, the adventure and the stillness, the zest for life and the retreats. Dora fought for and earned so much happiness at the end. She is truly one of a kind. I wanted to be her sibling when she was a child, or her friend when she was experiencing some of the thrills and fun of young adulthood—working, traveling, exploring the night life and dating scene, or I wanted to be her child. There were so many scenes that either broke your heart or amazed you with her ability to adjust and survive. Her story stays with the reader as a universal role model—complex and vibrant. Gratefully Dora leaves the world with descendants to shine more light in the world. Thank you, Sophia, for letting us share in your Granny’s life of 105 years. Let her memory be for a blessing.

This book is fabulous. A compelling story of one woman's amazing, tragic, yet uplifting life. You follow Doreen Stone's live from a young child growing up in poverty in Oslo, orphaned at a young age, her flight from Nazi occupied Norway, and her emigration to the United States. Sophia Stone does a wonderful job capturing the essence of her grandmother's life and it is a tale that everyone should read. i couldn't put it down.

This is a beautiful read. Stone transports us to another world entirely, but simultaneously one where we can relate with her grandmother as a woman, as a person, as someone going through the unimaginable while moving through all of the phases of her life. My favorite part is the skiing scene. I could not imagine skiing that long to escape, and the incredible bonds she makes along the way. I absolutely recommend this book - perfect for book clubs, and anyone wanting to know more about their own and our collective history.

A remarkable life story put into words by Sophia Tova Stone, the author whom is the oldest granddaughter of Dora-Doreen, a Holocaust survivor who endured life’s hardships but managed to overcome all of them and lived to be almost 105 years old! A book that will keep you wanting to continue reading it non-stop from beginning to end. Buy it and read it! I loved it!

Incredibly well written story of family, love and survival. This book held my attention from the very first page. Sophia’s words transport you right into her grandmother’s world. Her ability to capture a moment is truly breathtaking. It is an excellent read that I would highly recommend and plan to pass on to my family members to read as well.

A Granddaughter's love letter to her Granny. She tells the story of her paternal grandmother and the strength that Dora possessed to overcome a lifetime of obstacles. Through her difficult but amazing life, Dora reminds us of the importance of family, love, and a positive attitude.

I find the strength and determination of people remarkable. From a difficult life in Oslo to skiing through Norway to Sweden to escape the Nazis, to a new life and family in California and Maryland, a granddaughter tells this story lovingly.

Beautiful read. An important story that shows humanity, the search for love and familial connection, and the effects of war.