Kalman Hartig was born in 1930 into a well-off family in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia, where he was immersed in a world of music, art, and literature from a young age. His life took a dramatic turn after he joined the Seventh-day Adventist movement and later faced severe persecution under the communist regime for his faith, including two years of hard labor as a conscientious objector. His wife, Hermina (Minka) Kirchner, brings her own traumatic experiences to their shared life, offering a parallel narrative of resilience and courage.
The book has been meticulously researched and written by Catherine Allen-Walters, a professional violinist with a rich background in music, humanities, and the study of religious histories. Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo lends her own vivid memories of growing up in Serbia and Germany adding to it the knowledge she gained from extensive interviews with relatives and information from long lost letters. Near the Danube Bridge delivers an authentic and engaging historical account that resonates with contemporary relevance.
Literary Titan hails the book as “a deeply moving and richly detailed biography that explores the lives of two intertwined families during the tumultuous events of World War II and its aftermath.” The review further praises Allen-Walters’s writing style for its clarity and emotive power, emphasizing how the narrative “explores themes of transformation, hope, and perseverance.”
Near the Danube Bridge has garnered several accolades, including the Literary Titan Book Award, Pencraft Book Awards, International Impact Book Awards, London Book Festival, Firebird Book Awards, and Global Book Awards, underscoring its impact and significance in the literary world.
This biography is a poignant exploration of faith, resilience, and the complexities of human nature in the face of unimaginable adversity. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the power of belief and the human spirit’s capacity to triumph over great trials.
Near the Danube Bridge is available now at Archway Publishing, Amazon, and, Barnes & Noble.
About the Authors
Catherine Allen-Walters is a distinguished violinist with an affinity for the arts and humanities. Her academic background informs her writing, as she holds a bachelor’s degree in music and a master’s in humanities. Catherine has dedicated her career to exploring the intersections of music, history, and religious beliefs, enriching her understanding of diverse cultures and spiritual practices. As a passionate educator, she serves as a private tutor and violin instructor, sharing her love of music with students of all ages. In her spare time, Catherine enjoys crocheting, which she finds both relaxing and creatively fulfilling. She currently resides in Escondido, California, with her husband, their dog, and two cats, where she continues to contribute to her community’s cultural and artistic life.
Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo brings a vibrant and diverse perspective to her research, rooted in her family’s rich history and Elisabeth’s professional expertise. Born in Serbia and raised in Germany, Elisabeth’s early experiences provided her with insight into the complexities of European history and cultural dynamics. She is fluent in German and maintains strong ties with the German-speaking community in San Diego’s North County. Professionally, Elisabeth thrives in the fast-paced world of real estate, where she has built a reputation for her enthusiasm and dedication to excellence. A gifted vocalist, she regularly performs with the Bonner Singers and the Fallbrook Chorale, showcasing her artistic talents. Elisabeth lives in Fallbrook, California, with her husband and their two dogs, where she continues to engage with and inspire those around her through her varied artistic pursuits.
Media Contact
Company Name: Literary Titan
Contact Person: Catherine Allen-Walters & Elisabeth Hartig Lentulo
Email: Send Email
Country: United States
Website: https://www.nearthedanubebridge.com/