Since 2010, finally able to devote her life to finding the answers, Joanne has traveled throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe to find women, now in their 90s, who as teenagers, had not only defied the Nazis, but survived, and gone on to lead long, loving, and productive lives.
In 2014,“WOMEN OF VALOR: Polish Resisters to the Third Reich.” was published to enthusiastic reviews. It is a testimony to the strength of the female body, mind, heart, and soul. The second book in this groundbreaking series, “WOMEN OF VALOR: German, French, and Dutch Resisters to the Third Reich,” is expected to be published in late 2018.
It is an honor to know these “ordinary” women whose extraordinary, determination, generosity, and energy are still benefiting our world.
~Author Joanne D. Gilbert
POLAND, 2015
And 76 years later, on July 1, 2015, Joanne brought the true stories of the extraordinary Jewish and Gentile women who defied the Nazis, home to Poland!
“From my arrival and welcome by the dedicated, talented and energetic JCC Manager, Anna Gulinska on July 1, to my all-too-soon departure on July 4, my experiences at the Krakow Jewish Cultural Festival, and its proof of the revival of vibrant Jewish life in Krakow– including Shabbat Dinner for 500 guests– was an enlightening, inspiring, heart-warming, and transformative experience. Deepest thanks to all who made it possible — and to the heroic WOMEN OF VALOR who entrusted me with their stories!”
“Everything about the Krakow JCC is amazing–from its very existence in Poland, to its dedicated staff, to the fact that it was created in 2008 as the result of an unusual partnership between the Prince of Wales, the World Jewish Relief Organization, and the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee ( The Joint).
It is located in the historic Jewish Kazimierz District, and shares the courtyard with the still-functioning Temple Synagogue (built in 1862, heavily damaged by the Nazis, rebuilt after WW2). Much like JCCs everywhere, the Krakow JCC is always buzzing with activities for people of all ages and interests. It is the beneficiary of the dedication of its staff along with 200 non-Jewish volunteers. Heading it all up is the usually smiling and ebullient Executive Director, Jonathan Ornstein–who somehow always manages to be everywhere at once!”
GERMANY, 2015
