The Corset Maker is a tale of the twentieth century that celebrates human resilience. It is an enchanting, resonant novel inspired by the life of Dora Libeskind and seen through the eyes of Rifka. Berkovits weaves a story of a quintessential rebel in times of global crisis and war. Threads of Nazism, antisemitism, and sexism make for a compelling, fast-paced narrative that sees a young heroine navigate the world in search of her destiny.
-Daniel Libeskind, architect; Founder Studio Daniel Libeskind; Author of a dozen books including Breaking Ground and Edge of Order; Berlin and New York
Whoever saves a soul, saves the world
A Parisian Count, a Moroccan arms smuggler, and an orphaned Spanish boy test the convictions and tug at the heart of Rifka Berg, a young Jewish corsetiere from Warsaw. The Corset Maker follows Rifka's enthralling life leading up to, during, and after WWII.
Born into a pious Orthodox family, Rifka yearns to read forbidden literature and to explore the world beyond the confines of her small community. Her wishes come true, albeit harrowingly, when the tumultuous events of the 20th century take her on a journey for survival. Faced with life and death situations, Rifka must take immense risks. What decisions will she make? Or will circumstances choose for her?
The Corset Maker is written in honor of the author's mother and her close friends, all women of immense courage and integrity. Rifka's personal struggles and dilemmas go to the heart of the major ethical issues and challenges of our times.
