YUTKA And the Voyage of the Parita
Yutka And the Voyage of the Parita by Marcia Breece is a compelling historical novel based on the true story of Yutka Lipka Polonecki, a 17-year-old Jewish girl who escaped Nazi-occupied Poland in 1939. The narrative follows Yutka as she boards the SS Parita with 850 other young Jewish refugees, aiming to reach British Mandate Palestine. Their journey, intended to last seven days, extends to 42 harrowing days due to British blockades and refusals from various ports to provide food and water, leading to severe starvation and dehydration among the passengers. Eventually, the ship’s commander, Leibovitz, leads a mutiny, and the Parita is deliberately run aground on a beach near Tel Aviv, allowing the refugees to disembark.
The book also delves into Yutka’s personal struggles, including the loss of her family during the Holocaust and her enduring hope for their survival. Her story is enriched by personal letters, journals, and photographs provided by her son, Sam Regev, Ph.D., adding depth and authenticity to this poignant tale of courage, grief, and resilience.
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