The Lyons Den - by Beth L Barnett (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Unearth the incredibly true and moving story of the author's family renouncing Germany and forging a new life in America. It's a story of courage, determination, and the power of the human spirit.

Germany, 1866: 18-year-old Morris Lion leaves anti-Semitic Germany in search of a better life and religious freedom across the Atlantic. Boarding a ship to America, Morris has one goal in mind: find - or create - a more prosperous life than the one he left.

When he arrives, Morris travels from town to town, finding work where he can and trying to decide on the best place to settle down. Finally, he chooses Kansas City.

Revising his family name to Lyon, Morris becomes the first of four generations to face an entirely new set of challenges different from the religious persecution his family and ancestors suffered before. America is a wild and wonderful place but not without its own issues. From the fatal dangers of the Mississippi River to the strikingly familiar prejudice of a city that doesn't welcome outsiders, Morris and his descendants must overcome adversity and fight for their place in the world.

Brimming with examples of optimism, perseverance, and the strength to struggle for a better life, The Lyons Den is a work of heart by the author created to share an incredible story and honor her ancestors. It's a great read for memoir fans, history buffs, and those with a vested interest in Jewish genealogy. Some of the moments and true stories will resonate deeply with reform Jews of all ages - especially those of German descent.