“Three Sisters” by Heather Morris

“Three Sisters” by Heather Morris is a poignant and powerful testament to the enduring strength of family bonds and the human spirit in the face of unimaginable horror in the death camp in Nazi Germany. “Three Sisters” is the last one of the Tattoist trilogy, ” The Tattoist of Auschwitz” (2017), “Cilka’s Journey” (2019), and “Three Sisters” (2021).

Based on the true story of the Meller sisters—Cibi, Magda, and Livia—this novel offers a deeply moving account of survival during the Holocaust and its aftermath.

” I want you to make a promise to me and to each other that you will always take care of yourself, sisters. That you will always be there for one another, no matter what. That you will not allow anything to take you away from each other.”

Morris skillfully weaves together the sisters’ experiences, from their childhood promise to stay together, through their harrowing time in Auschwitz, and into their post-war lives. The author’s meticulous research and intimate interviews with the surviving sisters lend authenticity and emotional depth to the narrative.

The book’s strength lies in its unflinching portrayal of the brutalities endured in the concentration camps, balanced with moments of unexpected kindness and the sisters’ unwavering love for each other. Morris doesn’t shy away from the psychological toll of survival, exploring themes of guilt, faith, and the struggle to rebuild shattered lives.

The author’s decision to extend the story beyond liberation, providing a nuanced look at the challenges faced by Holocaust survivors in the post-war years is laudable. This broader perspective offers a more complete understanding of the long-lasting impact of such trauma and the resilience required to move forward.

While the subject matter is undeniably heavy, Morris infuses the narrative with hope and a celebration of life. The sisters’ determination to honour their father’s memory by surviving and thriving is a powerful thread throughout the book.

Alvina’s Verdict:

 “Three Sisters” is a vital addition to Holocaust literature, ensuring that the experiences of these remarkable women are not forgotten. It serves as both a memorial to those lost and a tribute to the resilience of survivors. Morris has crafted a deeply affecting work that reminds us of the importance of bearing witness to history and the enduring power of love and family in the darkest of times.