WHEN WE SEE YOU AGAIN
By Rachel Goldberg-Polin
Publisher: Random House
A mother recounts the capture of her son, Hersh, from the Nova Music Festival and his subsequent execution.
Review by By The Books Reviewer
In "When We See You Again," Rachel Goldberg-Polin delivers an unflinching and profoundly personal account of a mother's grief following the abduction and murder of her son, Hersh, by Hamas militants. This memoir is not merely a narrative; it is a raw, visceral exploration of loss, love, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
Goldberg-Polin's writing is devoid of embellishment, reflecting the stark reality of her experience. She recounts the harrowing 328 days of her son's captivity with a candor that is both unsettling and necessary. The author's ability to convey the depth of her anguish without resorting to melodrama is commendable. Her prose is direct, often mirroring the chaotic and fragmented nature of grief itself.
The memoir is punctuated with intimate recollections of Hersh, painting a vivid portrait of a young man full of life and promise. These memories serve as a poignant contrast to the brutality he endured, amplifying the reader's sense of loss. Goldberg-Polin's reflections on her son's character and their shared moments are deeply moving, providing a personal dimension to a tragedy that is often reduced to headlines.
Critically, the book eschews political discourse, focusing instead on the human cost of conflict. This approach allows the narrative to transcend geopolitical boundaries, resonating with anyone who has experienced profound loss. The author's restraint in this regard is both deliberate and effective, ensuring that the memoir remains a testament to personal resilience rather than a political commentary.
However, the relentless intensity of the subject matter may be overwhelming for some readers. The absence of a conventional narrative arc or resolution mirrors the unpredictability of grief but may leave readers yearning for closure. This structural choice, while authentic, demands a great deal from the reader, both emotionally and intellectually.
In conclusion, "When We See You Again" is a searing and unvarnished exploration of a mother's love and loss. Goldberg-Polin's courage in sharing her story is both admirable and essential, offering a voice to the often silent suffering of those left behind. While the memoir's unrelenting focus on pain may be challenging, it is precisely this honesty that makes it a significant contribution to the literature on grief and resilience.
Recommendation: Highly recommended!
written on: 4/30/2026