Bone and Blood (25 page)

This book would never have emerged without the inspiration of the survivors of Ravensbrück and the many pathways leading to and from that inspiration. Along the way I had sustenance and encouragement from key people. I acknowledge with gratitude the suggestions, tips, corrections and help with research they have given me. The final product has also benefitted from professional expertise in editing and design and finally the publication by Matador. The specific contribution of the following, at crucial points, has fuelled my enthusiasm and overcome my doubts:

Schorse Rennert my life partner for more than words can convey; Heike Thiele, friend, photographer and designer; Pam Wright, friend and website designer; Cressida Downing, editor. I am grateful to my friends Sabine Antony, Iris Lyle, Carmel Roulston and Nora Hughes for their engagement in the process; and appreciate the family support I have experienced throughout.

While all characters and personal details in the novel , Bone and Blood, are fiction, I have been inspired by the following factual accounts which have kept memories alive: