Excerpt from critique; The Association to Preserve the Cultural Egyptian Jewish Community
September 2007 issue
published Paris, France
"When one reads the book, one is amazed at the wealth it shows. Although we say that we know Egyptian Judaism, it is a whole world that is discovered in the book. The people that were interviewed loved Egypt and the "Egyptian People." It is a book to be discovered and talked about."
NAHAR MISRAÏM
October 2007 issue published Paris, France
read the review
“As a professional historian, I found the material of immense potential scholarly value. As a Jew who left Egypt during the 1956 Suez crisis, it touches me in a deep and personal way. I recommend this book to anyone interested in the forces that affect cultural dynamics, political conflict and, last but not least, human nature.”
—Jean Marc R. Oppenheim, PHD, Teachers College,
Columbia University
“We have been given an extraordinary gift in this compilation of poignant memories of an Egypt of long ago. These oral histories not only capture the rich way of life of Egyptian Jews, but they also inform of their caring for this land and its people.”
—Nimet Habachy Author, Broadcaster (WQXR), New York, NY
“This book is an extraordinary record of a vibrant,complex and diverse community. Dammonds’ carefull compilation of oral narratives will be an invaluable source for scholars And general readers. A rich and satisfying volume that is an indispensable disciption of the complex interaction between Jews and Arabs and the unfolding of C20th history.”
—Joyce Zonana Author, Associate Professor of English
and Women’s Studies University of New Orleans
"I thank you for writing (the book). I felt I had glimpse into an exceptionally rich way of life. How lucky you were to be part of it"
—Susan Elliott, Anchorage, Alaska
"Fascinating history...", April 10, 2007
The world of the Egyptian Jewish community would be lost to us if it were not for Lilliane Dammond's efforts to preserve their memories. Like it's authors, it reflects the emotions, issues and foibles relating to families, friends, and identity. I highly recommend it.
—Alexia Lalli, New York, NY
"A touching memorial...", March 30, 2007
In the first half of the 20th century the "foreign" communities in both Cairo and Alexandria had developed into a sophisticated, well educated group. Following the creation of Israel in 1948, Arab nationalism expulsed and dispossesed this entire class of people. Many of these were Jews who were forced to leave, without their livelihood and savings. More than a generation later, Liliane Dammond has interviewed some of those who were obliged to create new lives for themselves in many new countries. These individuals recount their memories in the first person, lending a touch of pathos and affection to their wistful recollection of a country which ejected them. It is a touching work, which I heartily recommend.
—Daniel Nadler
"I particularly enjoyed reading about your family and your insights gained from the interviews.Your book is a treasure that will keep these stories alive."
—Joyce Bamberger, High School Teacher, Anchorage, AK