Eva Evans

2023 | 186pb | ISBN: 9781914002373

Print book available here

Eva was part of the enforced migration of German Jews caused by the coming to power of the Nazi regime. Her background was not untypical of that exodus. Her father was a distinguished professional and their Jewishness was understated though never denied. Eva was wholly distinctive in two ways, her resilience and her intelligence. Her resilience was demonstrated in her attending the Cecilien Schule in Berlin as the only non­Aryan, in adjusting to the life of a refugee and coping with the illness of her beloved husband Robert. Her intelligence was demonstrated by the way she interacted with figures of stellar intelligence like Ernst Gombrich OM for whom she acted as secretary for a number of years and her beloved Judges in the UKAEL. This book is a searingly honest and insightful account of someone who has accomplished so much in Britain, achievements recognised by the late Queen’s bestowal of the MBE. Eva sometimes describes herself as an academic manqué but she has achieved so much more than many academics. This book like her interviews will be a treasure trove for researchers.

Professor William Paterson OBE, Emeritus Director of the Institute for German Studies, Birmingham University

The intelligence, rigour and civility of the writing exemplify not only the terrible loss suffered by German Jews but Germany’s foolish one, in ridding itself of the Jewish population who gave it so much.

Marc Cave, Director, National Holocaust Centre & Museum UK

Once a Refugee Always a Refugee is an engrossing story of Eva’s life as a German Jewish refugee who was fortunate to escape with her family from Nazi Germany. Her story provides a poignant reminder of this tragic historical period seen through the perspective of a first generation refugee. It will speak to refugees and survivors of other wars and catastrophes who have been forcibly displaced and have succeeded in adapting to their new homes.