Once We Were Brothers, by Ronald H. Balson

Once We Were Brothers, by Ronald H. Balson, is the story of the Solomon’s, a Jewish family living in Poland during World War II, and the young non-Jewish boy, Otto Piatek, who becomes a member of their family. The rise of the Nazis puts increasing pressure on all members of this family, and how each of them responds to worsening conditions forms the heart of this gripping tale. The story is told in the present day when the two men, who “once were brothers,” meet again. Ben Solomon has led a life of quiet contentment and study since the war.  The other “brother,” the man who now calls himself Elliot Rosenzweig, has become a highly successful and respected civic leader and philanthropist. When Ben Solomon accuses  Elliot Rosenzweig of being a former Nazi SS officer, and hires a young attorney to bring him to justice, the story moves into a tense and explosive race to its conclusion. Highly recommended.