Flight from Prague – the Making of a Refugee

Event information

Harry Lewy, the subject of this new book, knows his life is in danger when the British and French governments desert their democratic ally, Czechoslovakia, to appease Hitler. At the stroke of a pen, life in his homeland for Jews like himself has become untenable.
Drawing on original documents, historical evidence and stories from within the family, Michael Lewis traces the dilemmas and decisions which lead to his father, Harry, coming to realise that he has no choice but to flee.
Putting the decision into practice is fraught with difficulty and menace, as he makes good his departure from Nazi-occupied Prague.
From the comparative safety of London on the eve of World War Two, Harry struggles with what the life of a refugee actually means. He is penniless, isolated and vulnerable as he battles with bureaucracy in an environment which often feels hostile, The author explores the experiences, thoughts and emotions of a person cast adrift, without family or identity or worth, facing an unknown future.
Flight from Prague chronicles events which took place nearly 90 years ago in a very specific context.
However, the refugee phenomenon and the need for asylum is today still part of our reality. What happens when someone is forced to abandon all they have ever known or possessed, to throw themselves on the mercy of strangers? How relevant today is the story of Harry Lewy?

Michael Lewis will present his family story, read extracts from his book and invite questions and reflections

Free event, donations welcome.

Booking required