In Memoriam: Odd Nansen (December 6, 1901—June 27, 1973)

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Odd Nansen died forty-three years ago today.  Having read his diary multiple times, and having frequently discussed Nansen with his eldest child, daughter Marit (Nansen) Greve, the best way I can sum up his character is to borrow the words Primo Levi used to describe his best friend in Auschwitz, Alberto Dalla Volta (Dalla Volta subsequently died in the Auschwitz Death March—the same march young Tommy Buergenthal endured).  Here’s how Levi describes Dalla Volta in his memoir, Survival in Auschwitz: “I always saw, and still see in him, the rare figure of the strong yet peace-loving man against whom the weapons of night are blunted.”

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Book Signings

  • April 11, 2024: Our World, Kiawah, SC
  • May 5, 2024: Hadassah, Stonebridge, Monroe Twp, NJ
  • June 2, 2024: Yiddish Club, Monroe, NJ
  • June 3, 2024: Wilton, CT Public Library
  • September 28, 2024: Swedish American Museum of Chicago (Virtual)

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    On this day in 1944

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    Dec 16, 2022-Dec 08, 2023
    Battle of the Bulge: Hitler launches Ardennes offensive
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    On this day in 1858

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    Dec 17, 2022-Dec 09, 2023
    Odd Nansen’s mother, Eva Sars was born.

    On this day in 1942

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    Dec 17, 2022-Dec 09, 2023
    Allies issue joint declaration against extermination of the Jews
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