I was first made aware of the book "Night" in eighth grade by my teacher. She gave us a brief summary of what the book was about and then we immediately began reading it. I have always been fascinated by the Holocaust so I was very excited to hear that this book was based on the firsthand experience of an actual Holocaust survivor. Since then I have only read this book once more.
The book opens with Wiesel giving a vivid description of his life in a small town known as Sighet in Transylvania, which is now present day Hungry. Wiesel gives the reader the impression that he was a member of an average Jewish family. His mother and father owned a store, where two of his sisters worked. During this time, young Wiesel focused on studying the Kabala. Wiesel, from a very young age, knew the importance of growing closer to God.
Wiesel introduces the reader to a man known as Moshe the Beadle who would later become very important in this story. Moshe the Beadle had escaped from the Nazis and came to warn his people about what was going to happen to the Jews. However, no one believed him.
"Night" is one of the most traumatic accounts of the Holocaust that was ever published. Moreover, this book shows the desire Elie Wiesel had to survive the Ccncentration camp. "Night" gives a clear and honest description of the events -- so much so, it almost feels like the reader is experiencing it with him. Due to this fact, there is never a dull moment in this book. It is evident that this book was written, not for the reader to be overwhelmed with sadness, but to present a message of hope. After reading this book, I had no choice but to reexamine the true meaning of life. This book also has the purpose of keeping the memory of the Holocaust alive.
"Night" is a very inspiring book, but at the same time it is also heartbreaking. Wiesel gives a clear description of the brutality that was occurring. He describes the feeling of watching his father die the day before he would have been rescued from Auschwitz with his son; this was one of the worst images that I came across in this book. It was like I could feel his pain through his words. Elie Wiesel says that after being rescued it took him many years to even talk about his experience at the concentration camp. After reading this book, it is very understandable.
Though "Night" contains very strong content, it is essential in describing these gruesome events. Due to the simple fact that it is a honest book about the Holocaust it does not have a happy ending. However, "Night" inspires the reader remember that life does get better. This is a very genuine book that everyone should get the chance to read. It is very life changing and it inspired me to never take anything for granted. Life is such a precious gift and "Nigh"t demonstrates just that.
"Night," by Elie Wiesel, is a book I recommend to everyone regardless of their background. This book inspires the reader to look at life from a new prospective. After reading this book the reader is guaranteed to have a greater appreciation for the little things in life. This book takes a very sad account of young Wiesel’s life and turns it into a message of hope. The Holocaust is a time in history that should never be forgotten, because of this book I am certain that it will never be.
In memory of Elie Wiesel
September 30,1928 to July 2, 2016
