Annie's Ghosts: A Journey into a Family Secret by Steve Luxenberg
What's it about:
One of my all-time favorite books is written by an editor for the Washington Post. He uses his reporting skills to seek out the truth about an aunt that he and his siblings never knew existed. His mother had successfully hid the secret of her sister all their lives. It’s only after her death that the aunt’s existence is revealed. Through his research he not only pieces together his aunt's life but becomes acquainted with a cousin and her Holocaust story.
Why you should read it:
This story is a must-read for all genealogists. Luxenberg tackles a difficult research problem, finding records for a person who lived a majority of her life in an institution, successfully. His experience as an investigative reporter assists him as he conducts "genealogical" research. All genealogists can find tips here to incorporate into their own research for 20th century family.
Seriously, this is a must-read. I personally own two copies of the book and find myself re-reading it (and I never re-read books).
If you ever have the chance to hear Steve speak, I highly recommend it.
Additional resources:
- Annie's Ghosts (the websites)
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