Quick take
Speaking to the resilience of the human spirit in even the hardest of circumstances—a beacon of hope for our times.
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Emotional
Inspirational
Serious
Writer's life
Synopsis
It’s 1944 and sixteen-year-old ballerina and gymnast Edith Eger is sent to Auschwitz. Separated from her parents on arrival, she endures unimaginable experiences, including being made to dance for the infamous Josef Mengele. When the camp is finally liberated, she is pulled from a pile of bodies, barely alive.
The horrors of the Holocaust didn’t break Edith. In fact, they helped her learn to live again with a life-affirming strength and a truly remarkable resilience. The Choice is her unforgettable story.
Free sample
Get an early look from the first pages of The Choice.
Why I love it
Brianna Goodman
BOTM Editorial Team
When I recommend books to people in my life, I really try to tailor my suggestions to the readers they are for. A friend looking for inspiration after a long day at work would rarely receive the same recommendation as a relative looking for something to sink into on a long vacation. But every once in a while, I come across a book that everyone in my life can get something out of. The Choice, a moving, inspiring memoir from renowned psychologist Dr. Edith Eva Eger, is one of those books.
In the book’s first section, Eger recalls the harrowing period she spent as a prisoner of Auschwitz. A 16 year old with training as a ballet dancer, Eger was forced to dance for a Nazi officer in the hopes of survival. In the years to come, Eger wrestles with lingering memories, trauma, and guilt over having survived while others—including her parents—did not. But as Eger’s journey continues, she begins to find healing not only for herself, but for the countless others who are positively impacted by her story and work as a psychologist.
The Choice is an act of truth-telling, a historical record, and a compassionate portrait of suffering, healing, and forgiveness. But above all, this book is an act of generosity: By opening up about the dark events of her past and her decades-long journey toward healing and transformation, Eger gives readers a reason to hope. The Choice is at once utterly unique and brimming with universal truths. I’ve no doubt you’ll find it an inspiration, too.
Member ratings (2,712)
Claudia D.
Ladera Ranch, CA
I’ve never read/heard a Holocaust survivor story that hasn’t made me cry, but Eger touched me with her words in a special, spiritual way. She’s amazing, and I wish I could meet her and give her a hug!
Bailey R.
Clarkston, WA
Such a thoughtful and well-written book! Loved every story & every lesson that was told in this book. Will definitely be reading it again in the future! Even thought it’s a memoir, it’s so captivating
Jaime R.
Tempe, AZ
I absolutely adored this book! It was beautifully written and I couldn’t put it down once I started. This book changed my life and Grandma Edie’s words will resonate with me forever & for the better.
Allyson V.
Lancaster, CA
Dr. Eger weaves together her powerful and inspirational personal experience with therapeutic concepts and examples to teach readers that “the choice” is always yours. Flip victimization on its head.
Margaret R.
Spokane, WA
This book impacted my life by opening my heart to, as the title says, embrace the possible. Didn’t see that coming - similar promises have been made before. This delivers in a heartfelt uplifting way.