'The Mascot' is a fact-based book, written by father and son; Alex and Mark Kurzem, presenting their painful and slow findings of Alex Kurzem's excruciating past; a secret Jewish boy presented as a Latvian/Nazi mascot for a battalion of soldiers.
With vivid memories, Kurzem recounts the atrocities he encounters as a small child whilst fronting this movement, as well as the endless, raw itch to uncover his roots and his original identity closer to the end of his days
The book starts off slowly, introducing the reader to the restrained relationship between father and son and I happened to stare at the walls in between sentences. The middle of the book grabbed my attention when Alex's accounts are revealed. Sadly, I lost a slight sense of interest towards the end of the book, once all had been revealed and the meticulous journey to uncovering his past began.
Although slightly detailed and long, Mark captures his father's emotions and rhythms beautifully throughout the book;showcasing the roller coaster ride this old man has to endure to experience peace and gratification, along with a family - doing their best to fit into this warped and unclear picture.
All in all, this true encounter truly touched me. It showcased the pure adamant nature of a young boy, faced with one way of approaching the war in order to survive, secretly keeping his true feelings and guilt hidden until it made an impact and impression on those who took the time to listen many years later.
If you're an avid war fan, human rights activist or someone who enjoys reading material worthy of 300 or so pages, this book is for you.
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