Becoming Janet: A Holocaust Survivor’s Journey

Child Holocaust survivor, Janet Singer Applefield (originally named “Gustawa”), has touched hundreds of thousands of people as a public speaker over the last 40 years. Her new memoir, Becoming Janet: Finding Myself in the Holocaust, shares her poignant journey as she triumphs over the darkest chapter in human history and maneuvers through terrifying situations that would paralyze most adults. The book reveals how hidden children, periodically viewed as passive victims, are often participants in their own survival. Ironically, in her unique story, the people who inflicted the lasting wounds on Janet were distant relatives, while a few altruistic strangers protected her like family.

“At a young age I learned the importance of secrecy and resilience. Without that, there would likely be no memoir to write. Every time I speak, it’s as if the 1,500,000 murdered children come back to listen. After the war, my father emphasized the need to keep learning about what happened and to retell our story. He instilled in me the duty to speak for those who cannot. It’s a privilege to give voice to those children. That is what continues to give me a sense of purpose.” – Janet Singer Applefield

Please join the TBS Antisemitism Awareness Initiative (ASAI) as Janet shares her personal journey. There will be a Q&A, meet and greet, and breakfast will be served. If you want to learn more, you are welcome to buy a copy of Janet’s book at the event or ahead of time.