THE MASCOT: UNRAVELING THE MYSTERY OF MY JEWISH FATHER'S NAZI BOYHOOD
by Mark Kurzem

In 1941, when Alex Kurzem was five years old, he left his home in Russia and escaped into the forest. There he hid from the Nazis who slaughtered his family and villagers. Eventually, Alex was "saved" by a group of Latvian SS soldiers, who gave him a miniature uniform with boots. He became their mascot, but, in reality, he was used in the most horrifying of ways.
For over 60 years, Alex kept the secret of his past to himself, until, finally, he revealed the story to his son.
From the first chapter to the last the narrative is riveting. Mark Kurzem does a remarkable job.
Highly recommended!