I Promise You

This is the way that it happens. First, there is no more governess to fasten Maniusia's woolen coat. No more Bronia the cook frying goose livers and cut onion. Then, there is no more apartment with indoor plumbing gurgling under the floor. No food to eat. No warm, crusty bread. No frothy white milk for the baby. Eventually, there is nothing at all.

But in the heart of Auschwitz, when all that is left is the heart still beating inside of her, Maniusia's father begs her to make him a promise.

"Promise me, Maniusia!"

"But how?"

"Promise me."

I look at Tata. At his face waiting for promises, because he has nothing else to wait for.

I think of these words, the most important ones he has ever said. I pull out my own three words. "I - promise - you."

Maniusia's promise binds her to her faith, her spirit, and ultimately, her life.

I Promise You is the painful yet transcendent, true story of Maniusia (Miriam) Adler, as told to her granddaughter, acclaimed author Yael Mermelstein. Through Maniusia's story, you will experience what it truly means to win the war.