In My Hands by Irene Gut Opdyke and Jennifer Armstrong is a compelling memoir praised for its inspirational and gripping narrative of courage during WWII. Reviewers commend the vivid storytelling and emotional depth but note occasional stylistic inconsistencies. Overall, it remains a powerful testament to bravery and resilience in the face of adversity.

Readers who appreciate The Diary of Anne Frank or Schindler's List will find In My Hands by Irene Gut Opdyke and Jennifer Armstrong compelling. This memoir appeals to those interested in World War II, heroic personal narratives, and the resilience of the human spirit amidst adversity. Suitable for both young adults and adults.

In My Hands by Irene Gut Opdyke and Jennifer Armstrong is a memoir recounting Opdyke's experiences as a young Polish woman who heroically rescued Jews from the Holocaust during World War II. She navigates tremendous personal hardship, including enforced labor and complex moral choices, to save lives, ultimately finding herself in a repatriation camp before emigrating to the United States. The book includes depictions of sexual violence and wartime atrocities.

Inspirational / Hopeful / Heartwarming / Mysterious / Dark

**Irena Gut**  
A Polish woman with strong religious faith and a sense of duty to help others, who initially trains as a nurse but becomes deeply involved in resistance efforts during World War II.

**Major Eduard Rügemer**  
A German officer who employs Irena and unwittingly aids in her efforts to assist Jews, demonstrating a complex blend of decency and deeply flawed behavior.

**Sturmbannführer Rokita**  
An SS commander symbolizing cruelty, young and ambitious, known for implementing harsh measures against Jews.

**Herr Schulz**  
A German cook who discreetly supports Irena's clandestine activities by providing extra food and supplies, complicating her perception of Germans.

**Janina Gut**  
Irena’s younger sister, representing innocence and a motivating factor in Irena's actions to protect and preserve her family.

**Zygmunt Pasiewski**  
A forester sympathetic to the Jewish plight, providing shelter for Irena and her associates and connecting her with resistance activities.

**Father Joseph**  
A priest who supports the resistance and provides spiritual comfort and encouragement to Irena.

**Janek Ridel**  
A young partisan leader whose relationship with Irena offers her hope and companionship during the war.

Irene Gut Opdyke

Jennifer Armstrong

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

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Prologue-Chapter 6

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Chapters 7-12

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Chapters 13-18

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Chapters 19-24

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Chapter 25-Postscript

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In My Hands: Memories of a Holocaust Rescuer

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