Kalman and Leopold are two boys who survived unimaginable hardships during the Holocaust, relying on each other’s strengths, wit, and resilience inside the SS guard shack of Josef Mengele’s hospital camp.

No, Kalman and Leopold are not brothers, they both have twin sisters and were taken off the ramp for Mengele’s twin experiments. However, even though they were not brothers, their bond was as close as family, forged in the crucible of survival.

Yes, the story draws from historical events and the lived experiences of Kalman and Leopold who survived the Holocaust and Mengele’s Auschwitz.

When I refer to “Mengele’s Auschwitz,” it highlights the specific and harrowing atrocities conducted by Dr. Josef Mengele, a Nazi physician notorious for his role in the Holocaust. This title distinguishes the general horrors of Auschwitz-Birkenau—the largest and most lethal of the Nazi concentration camps—from the unique horrors tied to Mengele’s pseudo-scientific experiments and selections. Unlike the broader administrative mechanisms of Auschwitz, Mengele’s activities were marked by a direct, hands-on sadism. Survivors often recount his smiling, almost charming demeanor, which stood in stark contrast to his cruelty. While all of Auschwitz was a site of unimaginable suffering—where over 1.1 million people were killed—“Mengele’s Auschwitz” draws attention to the specific atrocities linked to his name: the experimental torture and the dehumanization of individuals for pseudoscientific purposes.

At its heart, Kalman & Leopold explores enduring themes, including:

• Moral courage: The resilience required to resist dehumanization.
• Intergenerational trauma and strength: The echoes of suffering and resilience that persist through generations.
• Preserving historical authenticity: Addressing ethical challenges of staying true to history in a world prone to oversimplification.

No, Leopold didn’t sacrifice himself. However, his wit and vigilance often protected both boys, preventing them from harm, beatings or even potential death.

Leopold’s quick thinking and ability to read dangerous situations helped the boys avoid punishments, beatings, and potentially fatal decisions.

As the son of Leopold, I grew up learning about my father’s strength, resilience, and wit—qualities that helped him survive unimaginable horrors. But it wasn’t until I discovered Kalman’s perspective that I fully understood the depth of my father’s impact. To Kalman, my father wasn’t just a fellow survivor; he was a hero who used his sharp mind and resourcefulness to protect them both in a world designed to destroy them. I chose to tell their story because it is a testament to the power of human connection in the darkest of times. Leopold’s story is more than a personal legacy; it’s a reflection of how small acts of courage, intelligence, and compassion can mean the difference between life and death. The world needs to know this story because we are at risk of forgetting. As survivors pass away, so does the direct link to this history. Stories like Kalman and Leopold’s remind us of the resilience of the human spirit, the dangers of unchecked hate, and the enduring power of hope and solidarity. By preserving their story, I hope to honour their memory and ensure future generations understand not just what happened, but the strength it took to survive and protect one another.

My father is the last surviving Mengele twin in Canada. His experiences and those of others who endured the Holocaust shaped my understanding of history and the importance of telling these stories authentically.

I chose to self-publish because I wanted to preserve full control over the integrity of this story. When Kalman and Leopold entrusted me with their life rights, they were unequivocal in their request: their experiences were not to be dramatized or altered. They asked me to honour and protect the truth they shared, to preserve the authenticity of their voices. By self-publishing, I ensure their story remained theirs alone—untouched, unembellished, and deeply true.

I hope readers gain a deeper understanding of resilience, the power of connection, and the enduring relevance of these stories in combating hate and preserving history.

Yes, both explore themes of survival in oppressive systems, human ingenuity under duress, and the fragility of existence.

Not currently, as this story was intended to stand on its own. However, I may explore related themes or stories in the future.

I will be attending the London Book Fair from March 11–13, 2025, and the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books on April 26–27, 2025. Additional dates, including other events and appearances, will be announced on this website under EVENTS. Stay tuned! 

It has deeply shaped my perspective, fueling my commitment to preserving their stories with authenticity and respect.

Their story reminds us of the consequences of hate and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a call to remember and learn from history.