Destined to Witness

Growing Up Black in Nazi Germany

By: Hans Massaquoi

Narrated by: Peter Jay Fernandez

What would life be like for a Black boy growing up in Nazi Germany? This unprecedented autobiography answers that question with the spellbinding true story of Hans J. Massaquoi’s life in Hamburg during the height of Hitler’s regime.

Hans is the son of a Black Liberian diplomat father and a white German mother. His father returns to Africa at the beginning of the war, leaving them behind in poverty and without the means to flee. Bewildered, Hans is force-fed ceaseless anti-semitic and anti-African propaganda in his schools. Within this tense atmosphere, increasingly violent Nazi policies and Allied bombing raids make Hans and his mother’s lives a desperate day-to-day struggle for survival.

Through countless close calls, Hans perseveres by his ingenuity, strength of character and a liberal dose of good luck - eventually going on to find his father in Liberia and emigrate to America.

Peter Jay Fernandez’s intense narration brilliantly punctuates all of the tragedy and triumph in this monumental audiobook.

©1999 Hans J. Massaquoi (P)2001 Recorded Books

Amazing Journey

Destined to Witness: Growing Up Black in Nazi Germany chronicles the compelling journey of Hans-Jürgen Massaquoi, offering a poignant perspective on life during Hitler's reign. For twelve harrowing years, Hans, among the marginalized non-Aryan population, endured dehumanization under the Nazis. His story is a powerful testament to resilience and prompts deep contemplation.

The narrative's engaging tone ensures a riveting read, maintaining a steady pace that never falters into dull moments. Hans's story captivates, providing insight into a lesser-known aspect of history. I highly recommend adding this thought-provoking biography to your reading list for its empowering narrative and the invaluable perspective it offers on a tumultuous era.

Excellent

Excellent book. It is so compelling. Of all the books I've heard on audible this is my first time making a comment. That is a testament to this outstanding book.

What a story…

Hans story was captivating. Very detailed and direct. It was like taking a step back into history.

A must read for anyone interested in the black history

This book is a must read for anyone is curious about getting to know african history beyond what is generally taught. It kept me on the edge of my seat all the way to the end.

All should read this detailed story of the life of Hans Massaqoui

I found this book intriguing. It allows one to experience the life of people living in Nazi Germany and two subsequent countries, Liberia and the USA & offers much in gaining an understand of the varied thoughts of the people living under the rulership at that time. The story opens up one’s understanding bringing compassion for the suffrage of those not in agreement with the rulership of the day. Fantastic read

A great walk through the life of one man

Excellent account of Hans’ life which leaves you mesmerized, spellbound and wishing for more. It comes with sharp details and amazing facts. Definitely a front row seat to history. Enjoyed the ride immensely.

A Well Told of a Life in the Head Winds

The Narration: Seamless. The inflections and tenor of the narrator made this easily one of the most aesthetically enjoyable reads I can compare in my years listening to audio books.

The Content: Destined to Witness is a cradle to middle age narrative which is rich the experiences that men face growing up, which brings one close to the writer's experience. The story then begins to ascend like a roller coaster ticking up the first precipice; as the implications of the time and setting this man was born into reveal their eminence in history and set the stage for a great story.

I can pay no greater compliment than to say the emotions and thoughts conveyed in the book had me swaying like sports fan watching a live game in over time. For such a harrowing tale there is an uncanny optimism, as the writer does not shrink from expounding his good experiences in equal measure to his tribulations.

Over All: This is a story all should read, not simply for a wonderful message which will stimulate your thoughts, but because it is a great listen and well worth a credit at it's 19 hour running time which had me engrossed throughout.

Dope listen...

I really enjoyed listening to this book. Great to get the insight on a Black man's plight & upbringing during the Nazi era.

How Hans continued to take risks but succeeded afterall.

Destined to Witness is a fascinating story. It is rich in history, lessons of survival and perseverance and a pure demonstration of the love and bond that exists between a mother and son. It should be required reading.

One of the most amazing books I've ever read!!

Any additional comments?

This is one of the most incredible stories I've ever heard! Such a different perspective than most WW II memoirs. I couldn't put it down! A must listen for anyone, really!