The book’s research accounts are fascinating—a true treasure hunt through history, involving stumbling, learning on the ground, and sudden fortuitous reveals. But the bonds that De Perignon forms along the way are as heartening, including with family members whom she previously had little contact with, or with whom she had avoided the subject of the war, let alone spoliation.

... a heartwarming and fascinating story by a superlatively gifted writer and first-rate reporter. The book is also a testament to patience and forbearance.

De Perignon’s mem­oir is a robust addi­tion to the grow­ing genre of art resti­tu­tion sto­ries, the depic­tion of her own dogged quest to achieve some sort of jus­tice for her family’s loss cap­tured deftly.

The author’s quest is undeniably intriguing, bringing to light the struggles that many Jewish families have endured—and continue to endure—in their attempts to reclaim artwork and other items taken by the Nazis. Some readers may find the often combative dynamics among the author’s family off-putting, and the prose is occasionally stilted; still, the story is memorable and often moving.

Baer de Perignon recounts her remarkable quest to pursue her family’s lost art collection in this riveting debut.