The light of day

The Light of Days brings the still unknown story of Polish Jewish women who fought against the Nazis during World War II to protect their people.

In Poland, during World War II, women—some still teenagers—helped transform Jewish youth groups into resistance cells. Their goal: to fight the Nazis responsible for the violent destruction of their community. Most of them served as "messengers," an essential activity for the groups' operations. But their work went far beyond transmitting information: they were intelligence agents, engaging in extremely risky missions.

With courage and cunning, these "ghetto women" acted as true fighters during the Holocaust. Disguised as Aryans, they infiltrated Gestapo offices; helped build underground bunkers and bombed German train lines. They withstood torture sessions and orchestrated incredible escapes. They smuggled in forged identity documents, money, clandestine publications, and weapons. Furthermore, they cared for the sick, sheltered children, and helped hide and protect entire families.

Yet the exploits of these guerrillas remained largely unknown throughout the years. Now, their life stories are finally being shared with the general public in this New York Times bestseller, winner of the National Jewish Book Award and the Canadian Jewish Literary Award, among others.

Through engaging and moving writing, in The Light of Days , Judy Batalion fills a historical gap by committing to in-depth research into the experiences of women worthy of recognition. Powerful and inspiring, this is a necessary work that honors the memory of Jewish resistance fighters silenced for so many years. A powerful account of war, the fight for freedom, bravery, and sisterhood.

“Pulsating Pride and Intensity” – The New York Times

“Well-researched and fascinating” – The Wall Street Journal

“Thrilling, haunting, and remarkably told” – The Economist

“Written with passion. (…) Batalion’s research is prodigious, and his dedication to history is sure and moving.” – Boston Globe

“A brilliant piece of research. (…) A grand celebration of the feminine spirit.” – Los Angeles Review of Books

“A compelling story of Jewish women who fought against the German invaders in World War II. In a powerful narrative based on interviews, diaries, and other sources, Batalion offers an objective look at past events that are too quickly being forgotten—and a story that desperately needed to be told.” – Kirkus Review

“Incredible. (…) A deeply moving and breathtaking read.” – Haaretz