A consuming fire: Encounters with Elie Wiesel and the Holocaust

by John K. Roth

Summary

"At his encouragement, I tried to write a book that is less about him and more about life as I have found it thus far. I have produced neither a biography, a literary analysis, nor even a philosophical critique of his writings, anymore than I have written a history of Holocaust events. Instead I wanted to see what would result by weaving two strands my own Christian experience and my reading of the Holocaust via his books. This writer (Wiesel) has changed my life, and my utmost thanks for his friendship must be that I try always to make that change a blessing. Thus, the outcome of my reflection is shared in the hope that it may assist others to venture in similar ways and to find new determination to thwart absurdity and indifference." -- John K. Roth, from Preface