One of the youngest survivors of Auschwitz, 77 year-old Michael Bornstein, shared his life story in the biographical book, Survivor’s Club, written by him and his daughter, Debbie Bornstein Holinstat.

Recently at Congregation Beth Shalom in Naperville, Anderson’s Bookshop hosted an event for the public to come listen to Michael tell his story of surviving the Auschwitz death camp during World War II at the age of four.

“I was prisoner B1148, I don’t know if you can see this or not but this is my tattoo,” said Michael, showing his tattoo to the crowd.

His life story of surviving different camps, immigrating to America, earning degrees, and building a family moved audience members young and old.

“I wanted to learn more about what I already knew about it,” said Maggie Zlotnick, an attendee. “And hear from someone who experienced it.”

“It was just a very inspiring, miraculous story almost. Really almost like a miracle that someone could survive, especially since he was such a young child,” said Katherine Zlotnick, an attendee. “And the book so far is excellent too.”

The authors also discussed how they got started writing the book, tracked down historical records, and found out more about their family during and after the war.

Those in attendance couldn’t help but be inspired by Michael’s story.

“I was actually born in Germany, I’m Polish by descent born in Germany. And we actually came over, immigrated to the United States in the same year he did in 1951, so that kind of hit home,” said attendee Casimira Tuttolomondo.

A signing of their book was held after the presentation as well.

More information about Survivor’s Club can be found on Anderson’s Bookshop’s website.

Naperville News 17’s Christine Lena reports.