Measure of a Man: A Memoir

From Auschwitz Survivor to Presidents' Tailor

By: Martin Greenfield, Wynton Hall - contributor

Narrated by: Stefan Rudnicki

Length: 6 hrs and 5 mins

Publisher's summary

He's been called "America's greatest living tailor" and "the most interesting man in the world." Now, for the first time, Holocaust survivor Martin Greenfield tells his whole, incredible life story.

Taken from his Czechoslovakian home at age 15 and transported to the Nazi concentration camp at Auschwitz with his family, Greenfield came face-to-face with "Angel of Death" Dr. Joseph Mengele and was divided forever from his parents, sisters, and baby brother. In haunting, powerful prose, Greenfield remembers his desperation and fear as a teenager alone in the death camp—and how an impulsive decision to steal an SS soldier's shirt dramatically altered the course of his life. He learned how to sew, and when he began wearing the shirt under his prisoner uniform, he learned that clothes possess great power and could even help save his life.

Measure of a Man is the story of a man who suffered unimaginable horror and emerged with a dream of success. From sweeping floors at a New York clothing factory to founding America's premier handmade suit company, Greenfield built a fashion empire. Now 86 years old and working with his sons, Greenfield has dressed the famous and powerful of Washington, DC and Hollywood, including Presidents Dwight Eisenhower, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama and celebrities Paul Newman, Martin Scorsese, Leonardo Di Caprio, and Jimmy Fallon.

Written with soul-baring honesty and, at times, a wry sense of humor, Measure of a Man is a memoir unlike any other—one that will inspire hope and renew faith in the resilience of man.

©2014 Martin Greenfield (P)2014 Blackstone Audio

Bravo!

Wow! What A Story! What A Book! Told so well even the difficult parts were catching. The indignity of Nazi Germany is surpassed by the humanity and integrity they trampled on.
Martin Greenfield epitomises the hopes, dreams, and spirit of immigrants to America. He goes on to thrive as a form of respect to the memory of those who never made it. Life itself is a tribute. A successful life, a celebration.

Don’t let some of the critical reviews steer you away from this fascinating story

This author immigrated to America as an impoverished Holocaust survivor who barely spoke the language, then rose in his career to become the personal tailor of multiple presidents and celebrities.

Some of the more critical reviewers have noted that the latter portion of the book contains a lot of name-dropping and what sounds like borderline boasting about his brand, and that’s true. But if I’d come as far in life as he has, I’d enjoy telling it all, even if it risked sounding like a brag. Besides, if Martin Greenfield really experienced everything he recounts (and I for one don’t doubt that he did), then maybe telling the tale is not necessarily the same thing as bragging.

The man certainly measures up, if I may allude to the title. To rise from such soul-searing tragedy to the pinnacle of professional success in his adopted country… well, I must say it’s a remarkable tale, and was well worth listening to, even though I personally have little interest in the fashion industry.

You see, I came for the Holocaust survival story, and that part did not disappoint. Sure, it was as bleak as you’d expect, but there were lighter moments, too. It was an amazing account of a man who survived against terrible odds, and I daresay this man’s journey would have made an interesting movie.

Couldn’t hold back…

…the tears. I’ve always known that most of my Alan Flusser made-to-measure suits and jackets were made over in Brooklyn at Martin Greenfield’s establishment. I’ll now wear them with additional pride and gratitude. I want to learn more about how survivors of such ghastly atrocities go on to live such grateful, graceful, and joyful lives.

Overcoming Unimaginable Adversity

I received this work for free as part of the Audible Plus Catalog.

Measure of a Man: From Auschwitz Survivor to Presidents' Tailor is an autobiography and a biography written by Martin Greenfield and Wynton Hall respectively. Martin Greenfield is a man who persevered through the most horrible circumstances imaginable and went on to live a prosperous, bountiful life. Stefan Rudnicki provides fitting and effective narration. This is a profound work that should be experienced.

Measure of a Man opens with 15-years-old Martin (formerly Maximillian) absorbing the terrible sights and sounds of Auschwitz, which was a German concentration camp that operated during WWII. Martin and his family were torn from their home in Pavlova, Czechoslovakia, where he was born and raised. The family was separated into various camps. Martin's resourcefulness and propensity for hard work helped him survive the worst circumstances imaginable. His camp was liberated by the Americans in 1945. Although the new-found freedom was daunting, Martin was determined to live a full, fruitful life, despite the emotional wounds that assailed him. He moved to America, where he pursued a career in tailoring. This led to his interaction with some of the world's premier actors, politicians and businessmen. Circumstances do not define the course of your life, and Martin's success proves that.

Martin Greenfield and Wynton Hall write an emotionally impactful work that sheds light on the human ability to adapt and overcome. Portions of the work that are set during WWII do not present an overwhelmingly depressing tone. Rather, events are shared in a matter-of-fact way that shows Martin's emotional detachment from the unfolding atrocities, which was likely a necessary mindset for survival. The pacing in these chapters is slow, which reflects that endless nature of imprisonment that was likely felt by the prisoners. In subsequent chapters, it is clear that Martin felt blessed to overcome such adversity, and the pacing is quickened. The writers do a great job conveying his physical, emotional and societal escalation from an overwhelming nightmare to the peak of success. At its core, this is an encouraging work that teaches the value of perseverance, fortitude and diligence.

Stefan Rudnicki's narrative skill expertly matches the emotional highs and lows felt throughout the work. His accents and inflections coincide with the atmosphere and tone that the writers deliver. He provides clear pronunciation and a smooth flow that extends throughout the short, six hour and five minute duration. His contributions add a level of believability to the work that's lost in paper form.

At its heart, Measure of a Man is the story of an individual who looked past his circumstances and dreamed of a better life. Martin was willing to fight for his freedom and work hard to achieve his dreams. His story is encouraging and uplifting, and the writers do a great job delivering that empowerment to the reader. Rudnicki's superb narration helps elevate the immersion and emotional impactfulness even further. This book should be heard by anyone interested in biographies, historical works and self-development books.

Awesome book

Thoroughly enjoyed the story and narration. The book provides insight into the person and the business which are both institutions. An easy read/ listen

Emotional, heart warming

Just an amazing story. Everyone should read this book. This man’s experiences and knowledge are a treasure trove for the last 80 years.

should be mandatory reading

It is interesting that I saw the news this morning, of the passing of Mr. Powell. And then, later, while traveling today, I’ve picked up and read Mr. Greenfield’s entire book, “Measure Of A Man”.
I praise God for your survival, your determination, and success. Your book is very important, and inspiring, and should be mandatory reading for our youth - for so many important reasons. And, sir, I am sorry for this loss of your friend.

Great book

Highly recommended for an inspiration and resilience.It’s a story of how you can turn around things after experiencing a tragedy

A Man of Measure

A story of a youth who's childhood was cut short by war and tragedy. A story of survival. A story that takes you thru the convoluted years of tears that finally turn into joy. A true inspiration.

So Inspirational

I loved this book because while was so slammed early in life, he was able to overcome all obstacles in his way. His thankfulness is incredible. I'm so happy for him that he found love. Both in family and business.