This photograph was taken in Leningrad in my brother Leo’s kindergarten. From time to time they invited a photographer from the photo studio next-door.
My brother was born on 23rd November 1931. He died on 24th April 1942 in besieged Leningrad. His name was Leo.
We observed all Jewish traditions until 1941 both in Germany and in Russia.
We observed Sabbath only in Germany; in the USSR we couldn’t manage to do it: everyone was busy at work, we all came home at different times, and it was impossible to consider the celebration of Sabbath to be a valid reason for absence from duty.
My parents went to the synagogue for sure. They also taught their children: I knew a lot of prayers. I remember very well the ceremony of circumcision arranged for my brother. He cried so piteously, the poor boy!
In 1933 we left Germany for the Soviet Union.
My sister and I went to school, and my little brother went to the kindergarten.
