I could not put this book down! The author wrote a personal and honest story which seemed believable. I recommend it to all.

My family came to the U.S. from Austria in 1907. If we had stayed, the majority of us would have been killed. This book is the personal account of a young man from a well to do Jewish family in Vienna. When the Nazis came to Austria his family fled, and when he could no longer flee, he decided to join a partisan group to combat the Nazis in Northern Italy. This book is honest and to the point. As a person who spent six years in the Marines and has a degree in History, I found Burger's accounts to be very real. His first-hand experience with resisting the Nazis is something everyone should read so it never happens again. If the world had reacted to Hitler the way Burger did as a young man, WWII probably would have been avoided. This book should be included as part of the curriculum of every WWII History course.

What struck me with this book was its honesty, the warts-and-all view of a boy's attempt at dealing with a nightmare by design; his incredible survival instincts and the places they took him. This book stands as testimony to the reality that Jews did, in fact, stand up in the face of Adolf Hilter through whatever limited or even extraordinary means opportunty presented. You can't write fiction like this first-hand account, though people like Herman Wouk have tried with great market success. The author, for example, chances upon people like Louis Armstrong giving us milestones as a frame of reference, but with a sincerity the best historical fiction writer sorely lacks.

The monumental biography of Mahler by Henri de la Grange has been available in French for some years, and the latest volume to appear in English is part of an ongoing project to make the work available to a wider audience. It is unique in the sheer mass of factual detail it presents, especially as regards contemporary critical reaction to Mahler's works and conducting. There is new material on William Ritter, an early admirer who left some colorful accounts of Herr Mahler in person; a

detailed physical description of Mahler by Alfred Roller, a Hofoper associate; and much other information that will be new and interesting even to long-standing Mahlerites who thought they knew it all.

However, de la Grange's almost exclusive focus on the externals of Mahler's life works to the detriment of the inner life, and this is the major shortcoming of his biography. There is little probing of the wellsprings of the mighty Mahlerian will that powered a colossal productivity, nor of the fierce vitality coexisting with neuroses. Nor, surprisingly, is much explanation offered as to why a tyrannical ascetic like Mahler would suddenly decide to marry someone half his age, a decision that took even his closest friends completely by surprise. Why didn't he stay single, or marry someone his own age, such as the devoted and musical Natalie Bauer-Lechner?

This question is important because it bears on the crucial one: Would Mahler have succeeded in solving the central problem of his last years -- keeping reality at bay in order to maintain the inhuman intensity needed to complete his unique artistic mission -- without the tension generated by this inappropriate (but for him richly symbolic) and largely sexless marriage, for which he, and to some extent also Alma's parents, were guilty? Did he feel this guilt and at a certain level feed on it? de la Grange draws a blank on these questions. Here Alma's book "Gustav Mahler, Memoirs and Letters" is a better source, though one has to read between the lines.

de la Grange clearly dislikes Alma and would minimize her role. He also worships Mahler and will not permit him the slightest fault. Two examples: He cannot conceive that the hero may have had a congenital heart defect, it must have been acquired from throat infections. He omits to mention that Mahler's idolized mother Marie was born lame and with a defective heart. According to Alma, who'd have no reason to make this up, all the children were handicapped by the mother's heart disease; there is also anecdotal evidence provided by Bruno Walter and others. Another example: de la Grange will not admit that the finale to the Seventh may be a miscalculation, however interesting. Thus he advances a tortured argument to turn black into white, and puts himself in the position of an "apologist nervous to the point of obduracy" (Adorno's words). In the process, he

completely ignores evidence that Mahler himself was uncomfortably aware of the problem (see the foreword by Redlich to the Eulenberg pocket score of the Seventh).

Mahler is a Freudian figure if ever there was one, and one can argue that the ideal of the eternal feminine, as symbolized by the composite Alma/Marie, became crucial to Mahler's sense of purpose, a major engine of his drive to create. Toward the end, he was psychologically completely dependent on her, even to the point of spouting nonsense regarding her abilities as a composer -- this, from the stern, inflexible director of the Hofoper! (The sad spectacle of Berlioz and his second wife Marie Recio comes to mind as another example of great-composer weakness.) That he had a mother fixation is attested by many, including Alma and Freud, and this would account for his lack of sexual interest; according to Alma, sex played only a very small part in his life. In any case, artistically the union was a brilliant success, even the marital crisis at the end serving to spur him on to new heights -- witness the Tenth Symphony with its impassioned marginalia addressed to Alma. With perfect timing, death then supervened to carry him off at the peak of his powers.

Although the music has lost none of its power and can speak for itself, there is still an unsatisfied need for a different kind of Mahler biography, one that is better balanced and probes the psychology of the man. For hagiography aside, Mahler's maladjustment was staggering even for his time, the hothouse atmosphere of fin-de-siecle Vienna just barely making his unique kind of greatness tenable. A great tortured artist on the scale of a Gustav Mahler is inconceivable today, our time doesn't allow it; we've been there, done that. He would be cured or killed at once, and in either case silenced. And for you computer game programmers out there, take heart -- in addition to a "Freudian" biography, there may be material here for an oeuvre of another sort perhaps more congenial to our age -- a soft-core computer game called "Let's cuckold Mahler". In any case, the music remains.

I had read the previous volume 2 of the life of Mahler several years ago and had anxiously awaited the issuance of this, the third in a four part series with high expectations.

I have not been disappointed. The extensive detail, expansive footnoting, and thorough research that went into this work is evident from the very first paragraph.

Highly recommended for any serious Mahler enthuasist.

Much as Mahler himself towers over Romantic era composer, so does La Grange tower over all other Mahler biographers. Not that Mitchell et. al. don't do a fine job, they do. But for comprehensive detail and deep probing and understanding of Mahler's life and music, La Grange is simply at the highest peaks. This latest installment of his massive series sustains his high standards of research, realiability and readability and for all you devoted Mahlerians out there is a must read. For those curious about Mahler, this is actually not a great place to start; the cost alone to read these three books, so far, on Mahler is a bad investment if you don't yet worship his music! There are many single books that give a good overview of his life as a companion to his music, if not a real guide. For those of you, try Cooke or Kennedy, for the rest, worship here!

Extremely interesting and informative insight into a fascinating (time)...Much insight into the character of A.Hitler ( and friends)..As an amateur historian i learned much I didnt know..The author wrote without prejudice(s) and merely presented facts..The opinions should be left to the reader...If your interested in this subject you will enjoy the book...

this book is not only incredible for its meticulous detail and unknown information about hitler but its also a social discourse on life in general of the old hapsburg empire and vienna at the turn of the century.the fact that this man was a bum who almost died of sickness and spent a few years sleeping in doorways and parks and was very close to starving but survived to be master of not only a country but a continent and almost the world is just further proof that fact is indeed stranger than fiction. stories about his adventures with many friends who were jewish is astonishing and in direct contradiction to his rantings in mein kampf where he liked to say he became an ant semite in vienna. its not true and suggests that hitler was only bieng an anti semite because it was politically advantageous in a land where anti semitism was widespread. if that is true that makes him even scarier. he was a close friend of a jew named joseph nueman and many of the mens homes he lived in were run by jews. he only liked to do business with jews and it was a jew who helped him from freezing to death by giving him a coat and many jews bought and sold his paintings for him.a very engrossing book for anyone interested in the subject of what shaped hitlers thinking

This is a book which gives the reader uncommon insight into what could well be the unseen fermenting origins of the most evil mastermind and destroyer in human history(Adolf Hitler). This detailed account of the degenerate class of life in which Hitler resided at the start of his manhood encompasses a curious mixture of the little-known facts about his obscure poverty, in stark contrast to the series of events revolving around Vienna which led directly to World War I. A positive aspect of this interesting work is the fact that as we witness the tramp and the homeless Hitler, his life is told without omission of detail, and most importantly, it is told independent of any direct comparison to the future leader who would eventually come to rule the Third Reich. A must for those who crave the hidden details beneath the ordinary texts.

Back Cover description: "A rather dull girl...with no looks to speak of." Doctor Charles Trescombe's opinion of his niece's governess was far from complimentary. Cordelia knew she was plain. She also knew what good manners were, and the high-and-mighty doctor didn't have any! But there was magic in Vienna that could transform even the most unlikely people. Much to her dismay, Cordelia fell in love with him anyway. And Charles soon discovered that quiet and unassuming ways had a knack of stealing a man's heart--without him even realizing it.

This is one of the better Betty Neels books. It's the first I've read that takes place in Vienna. Both Charles and Cordelia are English. She is governess to his niece (a temporary post). The descriptions of the city are done so that you'd like to go there. Ms. Neels describes the food and clothing with an eye to detail. I love the way she gives the whole menu everytime anyone eats. Good story, strong heroine and love. Another hit by a terrific author.

This is absolutely one of my very favorite Betty Neels books. I must admit to a special fondness for her Cinderella stories. No one tells them better. This book has the wickedly delicious cold stepmother and evil little stepchildren, the heroine determined to escape and make her way in a world that is not always kind to poor hard-working people, the silly little selfish spoiled women of the world, and the dusty, moldy, old-before-his-time unsuspecting lovable hero. You will sigh and cry and not be able to put it down !
A joy for loyal Neels readers and a wonderful introduction to the Neels magic for new readers.
If they ever get smart enough to put it out in some hard cover form, I will snap up a copy - as I have dog eared my current copy !!

This story is about a girl strong enough to leave a bad home situation to better herself. She has some set-backs and disappointments but never gives up. And, along the way she meets a very nice man who takes a while to realize that this is his soulmate! As always Betty Neels has delivered a truly sweet romance. The characters a very believeable. If you are a fan of a true romance, and not a story where they jump into an intimate relationship after knowing each other for five minutes then Betty Neels is the author for you.

This is an excellent guide to finding some of the real treasures in Vienna, Budapest, and Prague - the coffee houses. In this suscinct, yet detailed piece, you become very close to the rich and splendid aromas and bright and unique personalities and romance that each of these social "temples" have to offer. Not only has the author captured the essence of the coffee houses, but she also shares with us interesting historical details, perspectives and notes. Enjoy the comments and discriptions of these "museums" with special attention to one of my favorite subjects, architecture. Absolutely a joy to read and use as a compass through the wonderful streets of these absolutely fantabulous cities.
I rate it right up there with my Perlman cigar guides which have enriched my travel experiences well beyond anything I could have found by just "wandering". Don't leave home without it!

As we prepare to visit Vienna for the second time, this book is helping us to prepare our itinerary adding this time many visits to those sometimes off the beaten track coffee houses. What a gem of a book, packed with so much valuable current information such as addresses, hours, etc., as well as historic data. Its definitely being packed in our carryon luggage along with a couple tried and true tour books. Here's to the author ... thanks to the last drop! How about some other city editions?

A stray bullet hit dentist Rebecca Evans while she is driving to the Chicago Dental Society meeting where she had been elected program chair. Before the accident, her mind is racing with all the things that she needs to do that day; afterward she cannot speak or remember hour to hour events. The bullet entered Rebecca's temple and and left her brain damaged.

This book describes in complete detail her rehabilitation, partial recovery, and further complications. It is written in three parts that tell about the physical and psychological struggles that Rebecca goes through to get her life back.

A good read for those who are interestd in a person's encounters with the setbacks in rehab. In the same vein as Christopher Reeve's Still Me, this book shows how family is essential in a person's recovery. Also shows how personal reminiscence triggered by momentos help in putting back the peices.

Based on a true story.

Dr. Rebecca Evans had an idyllic life. By day she was a consummate professional at her orthodontic practice on Michigan Avenue in Chicago. By evening she was a devoted wife and loving mother at her home in Oak Park. Rebecca had it all. October 1992 her life was shattered when she became the victim of a gang-land shooting. This book tells of Rebecca's heroic battle to overcome her physical, mental, and emotional challenges. Rebecca's courage, tenacity, and positive attitude will be an inspiration to others who are struggling through any type of rehabilitation. The book also stresses how family and friends supported and encouraged Rebecca. Rebecca's memory of her past life eluded her. With the help of family photo albums she learned about her childhood. Letters from Vienna, that she wrote 33 years ago, brought back the memory of her Junior college year in Vienna. The letters are detailed, interesting, and informative. They give the reader a deeper understandting of Rebecca's personality and add texture to the work as a whole. I found myself captivated by Rebecca's moving story, and I would recommend it not only for the handicapped, but the general public as well. Rebecca is a testament of the strength and durablity of the human spirit.

What a mess! The editorial review (excerpt from Kirkus reviews) is about the Eva Ibbotson book Morning gift - set in Vienna and Britain before and during World War II. Great book: 5 stars.

The Diana Norman book is the one about the Saxon heiress. I also read it, but can not remember much about it, thought it was average.

A wonderful story of survival amidst a political war torn backdrop. It is more romantic history than historical romance. It is not a happy ending; it is a fitting ending to a story filled with strong will and strong emotion. It leaves you happy for the heroine. Unforgettable!

This is one of my all time favorite books. I have reread it many times with a great deal of pleasure. It concerns the life of a young Norman heiress named Matilda who is sold off to one husband after another during the violent times of the civil war between King Steven and the Empress Maud. Matilda's first husband presents her with a "morning gift" after their wedding night. She is dismayed at this display of lusty feeling on his part and mortified to think anyone might imagine she is capable of the same feelings. Then she is further dismayed to find that this gift is a swampy bit of fenland in East Anglia where no one speaks her proper Norman French. But it is a rich land filled with sassy, dependable people and it's a great place to hide in times of trouble and trouble is surely coming!

I find the Rough Guide to Vienna not particularly "rough" - except as far as some of the information it contains is inaccurate or outdated. Other than that, it mostly concentrates on the tourist spots and does not even attempt to give readers or visitors the greater picture of things. It's not a bad guide, but it gives you only a very limited picture of what this city is all about. I was quite disappointed.

Buy the TimeOut Guide to Vienna instead.

I found this book to be highly valuable in my trip to Vienna. I found the restaurant and hotel descriptions, short, useful, and (at least for the restaurants that I went to) spot-on. The guides to the various sites (Belvedere, Schoenbrunn, etc.) are also informative, and somewhat opinionated, which different readers will find either useful or irritating. All in all, definitely worth the money.

I planned a recent trip to Vienna w/ this guide & it proved indispensable. Sharp, concise, fun & up-to-date - The Rough Guides are the best.