42 pages 1 hour read

Heda Margolius Kovály

Under a Cruel Star: A Life In Prague, 1941-1968

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1973

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Under a Cruel Star by Heda Margolius Kovály recounts her harrowing experiences during World War II and its aftermath. Sent to a ghetto and concentration camps, Heda escapes back to Prague, only to find isolation and antisemitism. After remarrying Rudolf Margolius, who is later executed during a Communist purge, Heda faces continued adversity, eventually participating in the Prague Spring before leaving Czechoslovakia. Sensitive topics include experiences of persecution and loss.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Under A Cruel Star by Heda Margolius Kovály has elicited a mix of admiration and criticism from reviewers. Praised for its vivid and poignant depiction of life under totalitarian regimes, it is lauded for Kovály's resilience and narrative power. However, some critics find it emotionally demanding and, at times, overly bleak. Overall, it is recommended for its historical significance and inspirational message. MLA

Who should read this

Who Should Read Under a Cruel Star?

Readers who appreciate Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl and Man’s Search for Meaning will find Heda Margolius Kovály’s Under A Cruel Star compelling. This memoir appeals to those interested in survival stories, personal resilience during World War II, and life under totalitarian regimes, combining historical context with intimate narrative.

Recommended

Reading Age

16+years

Book Details

Period

Holocaust

WWII / World War II

Topics

History: European

Themes

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies