January 19th, 2010
Anne Frank Remembered by Miep Gies
This was a book which I anticipated and wanted to read very much. I bought a copy with Miep Gies‘ 100th Birthday afterword the moment I saw it at a bookstore. First edition! 
It was a part of history that I was glad to learn about.
Many of us have read Anne Frank – The diary of a young girl. Or you would have heard about her. The book was from Anne’s point of view. I had always wanted to know from the caregiver’s and protector’s perspective. I wanted to know the trials and hardship she faced from the wars (she survived both WW1 and WW2). I wanted to know who was this lady and how was she raised. I wanted to know the difficulties she faced in caring for them.
I have read many books but rarely have I read a book which radiates with such honesty and humility. Her pages emit a somber and yet sober gentle mood. When I read Miep’s prologue and the afterword of her 100th birthday, it brought tears to my eyes. With her being so renown and being the last survivor of the group which housed the Anne Frank and seven others, she still insists that she only did what anyone would’ve done. She didn’t ask for more when she could have. I photographed this page from the copy I own, so you can read for yourselves.
I was saddened to have heard that Miep Gies had passed away. She had a bad fall in her nursing home b4 Christmas of 2009 and never recovered properly. But I’m glad that she’s now in a better place and will be rejoined with her beloved husband and the rest who have passed on before her. Living history has been laid to rest but she will always be remembered.
Miep Gies, you have thought me much through your writings. I salute you. For all of you out there who are looking for a good book to read, do consider this one.