4 out of 4 stars
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He Could Make Words Sing is a biography of Harry Greissman penned by David Greene. The book narrates Harry’s experiences during the twentieth century. It explores critical social issues of his time: racial prejudice, antisemitism, war, tyranny, and revolutions.
Harry Greissman’s growing years are during the Great Depression. The economic hardship is so grave that his entire family has to sacrifice for his education. In addition, they are subject to immense difficulty and antisemitism due to their Jewish origins. Harry is exceptionally gifted; he is a scholar, athlete, and leader. More so, he is fluent in seven languages which include German and Spanish. In 1937, fresh out of college, Harry faces life-changing events and the looming world war. In the long run, he and his brothers are drafted into the army. He happens to become a military interpreter.
In 1943, Harry is stationed near Raleigh where he meets and falls in love with Anne Hetrick. She believes Harry “could make words sing,” an ability he exhibits in the many beautifully crafted letters to her over a period of 40 years. He later becomes a forward observer (one of the military’s most dangerous jobs) in the Battle of the Bulge with the 78th Division. However, during his time in the war, Harry and Anne get separated because of her apprehension about their religious differences. Harry proceeds to marry Iris Resnick, and together they have three kids. He is discharged from the army in 1946. Although he wants to be a sports journalist, he instead becomes an ad man (who would later work on some of the accounts depicted on Mad Men) at Vick International. Additionally, he begins to teach advertising and marketing at Baruch College and Fordham University’s School of Business.
The book analyzes the impact of the social issues of the twentieth century, and how the same topics still affect the world today. From racial discrimination to immigration laws and border control, it is intriguing how individuals’ lives are forever changed by factors beyond their control. For instance, the attack on Pearl Harbour claims over 2000 lives and precipitates United States' entry into World War II. Be that as it may, it profoundly transforms the American economy. This improves the financial circumstances of Americans. The Great Depression ends, and by the conclusion of the war, more than half of all industrial production in the world takes place in America.
I appreciate how the book raises many important social questions and attempts to resolve them. Furthermore, I am fascinated with the level of research carried out by the author. He carefully cites references and includes illustrations to deepen the understanding of the narrative. Additionally, Harry’s stories are wonderfully woven into the discussions on social issues. Most importantly, the samples of Harry’s letters are the highlights of the book.
What I least appreciate is the use of profanity in the book (although there are only four instances present). In addition, the author claims, “Back in the 1940s, however, there was no PTSD. Veterans suffered from battle fatigue.” Contrarily, there is evidence to highlight the impact of symptoms of PTSD on soldiers even before World War I (https://goo.gl/gnsKJA).
Nevertheless, I give this book a rating of 4 out of 4 stars. It is thoroughly enjoyable despite the drawbacks. I think this book will appeal to anybody who loves biographies and non-fiction stories.
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He Could Make Words Sing
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