Review
a sincere...moving attempt to speak the unspeakable ― The Sunday Times
What an extraordinary and important book this is. We need as many memories of the Holocaust as we can retain, and this is a moving and ultimately uplifting story of love, loyalties and friendship amidst the horrors of war. I'm so glad Lale and Gita were eventually able to live long and happy lives together, and thankful that Heather Morris was moved to record their incredible story. It's a triumph ― Jill Mansell
A truly remarkable read -- Dan Walker ― BBC Breakfast
Extraordinary - moving, confronting and uplifting . . . a story about the extremes of human behaviour: calculated brutality alongside impulsive and selfless acts of love. I recommend it unreservedly' ― Graeme Simsion, author of The Rosie Project
Based on the true story of Lale Sokolov, who is forced to tattoo numbers on his fellow concentration camp detainees' arms. ― The Bookseller
Nothing that I could possibly write here would be eloquent enough to convey to you how powerful and moving this book was. I could go on for pages telling you how well this is written, nothing is overdramatized...she just tell this tale that is at its bare bones a love story. I cried entire buckets of tears. Finally I will use the words of Lale "If you wake up in the morning, it is a good day" that it is. That it is ― Netgalley Reviewer
What I loved so much about this book is that it actually made me stop and think; each and every one of those people, regardless of their number or rank within the system or whether they survived or didn't, had their own story. A quite unexpected story in fact of love, despite the odds, within the concentration camps. What's so beautiful about this book is not actually that it's true. Because it is both too beautiful and too ugly to really "enjoy" reading such an honest first hand account. What struck me the most was how quickly relationships, and very strong friendships almost akin to family, develop when times are so terrible. A hard-hitting, important book with love at it's core. A brave story shared with an author who delivers it perfectly for one man, and his love affair, who would not be defeated ― Netgalley Reviewer
I don't like reading war time books because they get too depressing or too political. But this one was so different, it gave you hope, that even in the darkest of times if your willpower and faith is strong you can come out successful ― Book Ninja
It is one of the rarer stories of the Holocaust, that dares to feature romance in such a place of misery, hopelessness and the dearth of birdsong. Love happened, and the unlikely, nay downright impossible, happened, and this heartfelt book is a very enjoyable presentation of that. ― The Bookbag
A beautifully written harrowing story of one man's will to survive in Auschwitz...it is a story of hope and endurance and a beauty that emerges when all around is painted in black. As a reader you cannot help but be affected by this account the simplicity of the story telling only adds to the poignancy... ― Library Thing
This is an outstanding read...An extremely powerful and absorbing read that had me in tears at the most surprising moments and it will be making an appearance in my Top Ten of 2017. It is due to be published in January 2018 and I hand on heart urge everyone to read it. ― Batty About Books
Though very hard to read in places, this story is full of hope, love, courage and kindness. It made me cry a lot, but in places it also made me smile, as it shows humanity at its best in the worst of times. Lale had nothing but positivity and determination and, along with Gita and many of the other prisoners, is one of the bravest people you will ever read about. This review doesn't come close to doing The Tattooist of Auschwitz justice. It's such a heartbreaking, beautiful story and one I'm so glad Lale got to tell ― Foreword Books
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a very moving book, showing the survival of humanity in a brutal place. I love this story ― The Reading Life
Lale Sokolov's story not only moving and heart-breaking, but also humbling and inspiring hope. I was so totally blown away by this book that I am really struggling to find words for the emotions it evoked in me. In her writing, Morris manages to convey the spirit of a young man trying to survive, but also hold on to his humanity the best he can. It was heart-breaking and humbling to see the strength of the human spirit in the face of death. What an amazing man. What an amazing story. Everyone should read this unforgettable book ― But Books Are Better
I don't think I've ever felt happier about a love story than now. I really admired Lale from the very start of this novel, his positivity and his determination to survive shine through from the very beginning and it was wonderful to see how he tries to give Gita hope when she sees none. Heather Morris did a brilliant job writing Lale's personal story, and even though it was a very compelling testimony and there were still many sad moments to get through, the overruling feeling after I finished it is one of warmth and contentment for these two individuals. Lale and Gita's love story was a perfect counterweight for the predominant harshness of this novel. ― The Belgian Reviewer
I absolutely loved this book and thought it was a powerful and emotional story of survival in such an awful time. Lale is such a wonderful, amazing man who uses his power as the tattooist to help others, he is truly an amazing man...This story is such an emotional one that I found myself really pacing through this book, I found it so difficult to put down. It was beautiful and inspiring and I hope others pick up this book when it is released next year. I highly recommend this ― Life and Tea
This was such an emotional read, so many highs of Lale and Gita and then so many lows of friends lost along the way ― Lozzi Book Reviews
I've always held a deep respect for books that remind us how terribly bad human nature can be if left unbridled, so it went without question that this book was a must-read. I very much enjoyed reading this, and I envy the author for the precious hours she was able to spend with such a forgiving, peaceful human being. It would be an honor to have met Lale Sokolov ― Slightly Cracked Belle
'Lale did what had to be done to survive, but he also boosted morale and saved inestimable lives by appropriating food and medical supplies from right under the noses of the SS Death's Head Units. He was naturally empathetic, well liked by his fellow prisoners and held out to the end with his dignity and integrity unblemished. More amazingly, perhaps, is that he developed a deep and enduring love for a women he had branded upon entering the camp. The Tattooist of Auschwitz is the remarkable, percipient, utterly unforgettable novel based on Lale's experiences as camp tätowierer ― Book Jotter
Even when we think we've heard enough we will never be free of the stories of the Holocaust and we shouldn't be. As long as there is ink and paper the stories need to be told because there is always one we haven't heard. The Tattooist of Auschwitz was one of those for me...we know at the outset they survive but it's in the how that keeps us riveted and shaking our heads in amazement at the courage, the determination to survive and the love these two have for each other ― WeeSied
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a very powerful and emotional read. At times it is overwhelmingly harrowing, yet at the same time there is always a hint of hope. ― Little Miss No Sleep
one of the most life-affirming, courageous, unforgettable and human stories of the Holocaust: the love story of the tattooist of Auschwitz. ― The Book Trail
The Tattooist of Auschwitz, is a tale that will live long in the minds of its readers.Morris weaves Lale's story into a mesmerising fictional narrative, that at times leaves the reader astonished not purely by what Lale witnesses and experiences, but the determination and resolve of this man. It is both a terrific oxymoron and a testimony of the triumph of love that the human capacity for affection and compassion can reveal itself in such an horrific setting, but it is also testament to these two individuals that they can foster love in the darkest of moments. This is a book whose story - not least because it is based on true events - couldn't fail to affect me. I longed for Lale and Gita's happiness and future, but I was also haunted by all those who didn't achieve either. For me, reading this book was a pleasure, a lesson and a reminder; I would recommend it to all readers. ― Nudge Books, Bookhugger review 5/5*
I couldn't put this book down. Despite the horrors within its pages, this is also a tale of love, friendships, and hope. It's a story that made me stop and think about the individual stories of other prisoners in these camps, what they had to do to stay alive and who they lost along the way. Stories that we will never know but that we should never forget existed. This is a short novel but it packs a huge punch; the combination of Heather Morris' storytelling and Lale's unforgettable true story make this book impossible to put down. ― Strupag book blog
The story broke my heart over and over, but also gave me hope. Out of something so awful, the love between Lale and Gita was born and managed to withstand and survive. It's something you need to read to believe because the tale is like something out of a movie. Of course, I gave this 5 stars. It is beautifully written and tells an incredible story that needed to be told. ― Chloe Metzger
Somehow both Lale and Gita survive - this isn't a spoiler, this is a true story and so we know at the outset they survive but it's in the how that keeps us riveted and shaking our heads in amazement at the courage, the determination to survive and the love these two have for each other. I can only imagine a person could only survive if there was cunning and courage and caring involved. ― Denice’s Day
This is an important period in history, one that should never be forgotten or taken lightly. Heather has done a wonderful job in relating Lala's story. It is an emotional journey, and even now I still feel the emotion as I write this review, a few days after reading the book. ― Me and My Books
This is not a comfortable read and nor should it be. What the Jews and other minority groups suffered at the hands of the Nazi's is something the world should never forget. The fact that this is a true story makes it all the more horrific, yet it has glimmers of hope and humour and ultimately love. ― My Bookish Blogspot
Despite how much this book broke my heart, it also reassured me that things weren't all bad for all of the people stuck in concentration camps, & that some were able to find happiness in small doses. ― Writing Wolves
I really did appreciate it was inspired by the true events of a couple; both humbling and heartbreaking, I was captivated by their love story. I felt like this point of view was incredibly original. Lale was not just a typical prisoner of Auschwitz concentration camp- he was the tattooist. I have never read any WWII fiction with this type of perspective and I was in awe of the atrocities he experienced were explained. The lengths that Lale goes through to protect Gita were astonishing and their will to survive was fascinating. ― Clues and Reviews
This is definitely a book that will stay with me for a very long time. It also needs to be shared far and wide, to be read by all ages and all peoples, so that would happened is never forgotten, so that it never happens again. ― Secret Library Book Blog
Out of one of the worst periods of human history comes an inspirational story of love, hope and survival... a beacon of light amidst the dark ruins of the Holocaust.Lale's harrowing but unforgettable story is one of beauty and brutality, life and death, humanity and inhumanity, but through it all the flame of hope never dies. It is the beacon that sees him through the very worst of times and gives light to the rest of his days. An extraordinary story of an extraordinary love... ― Lancashire Evening Post
The story, the tale of Lale and Gita is so memorable ― Much Ado About Books
This book is unmissable. It's a readable, sensitive, morally complicated and engrossing story ― Those Precious Stolen Moments
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a story of love against all the odds. It is beautifully written, desperately sad and at the same time triumphant. A must read WW2 novel ― The Welsh Librarian
Would I recommend this story? A million times yes! This is a story that not only needs to be read, but it's one that we can not afford to forget. It is moving, emotional, gritty, and most importantly, real ― Minimac Reviews
A fascinating insight in the life at Auschwitz and how the main character manages to survive by having given the task of tattooing the numbers on the arms of the prisoners of Auschwitz. You probably won't keep your eyes dry with this one! I can highly recommend The Tattooist Of Auschwitz to any fan of the genre ― It's All About Books
This is a debut novel by Heather Morris, it is a true account of Lale Sokolov's time in Auschwitz. It's a harrowing read of the treatment the prisoners endured. This was a brutal and chilling read but also very emotive...this was sensitively written and compelling, I sometimes had step back for a moment to remind myself that this really happened and everything I was reading was a devastating and cruel reality. This is definitely a book that I recommend you pick up in 2018... ― Louise Loves Books
The fact that this is a true story makes it all the more horrific, yet it has glimmers of hope and humour and ultimately love ― My Bookish Blog Spot
I really did appreciate it was inspired by the true events of a couple; both humbling and heartbreaking, I was captivated by their love story ― Clues and Reviews
Despite the ugliness and the gut wrenching setting there is beauty in this book, the resilience that Lale finds deep in himself, his courage and above all his strength of character shine through, as does his love for Gita. The author has done an incredible job of retelling Lale and his Gita's story, at times I felt I was there alongside him, I felt his despair, his pain and those moments when it would have been easier to have given up than live another day. I found the end of the book very emotional as the reader learns what happened to Lale and Gita in the years after Auschwitz. This is one book that will haunt me for a long time to come, but I think it's a book everyone should read. Highly recommended ― The Book Review Cafe
It is a story full of horror but of hope and the strength of human spirit in the face of adversity and Lale and Gita were such an admirable, brave couple and I'm glad I got to read their story, as many stories were unable to be told ― Books And Me
It is a story full of horror but of hope and the strength of human spirit in the face of adversity and Lale and Gita were such an admirable, brave couple and I'm glad I got to read their story, as many stories were unable to be told ― Bookkaz
I fell just a bit more in love with Lale the more I read. ― Sissi Reads
A powerful and deeply moving story of survival and also a remarkable love story ― The Last Word
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is very much a story of survival. The Tattooist of Auschwitz isn't just about how Lale met and fell in love with Gita, but also about how courage, pride and stubbornness ensured they survived. It's beautifully written as fiction, even though it's a true story. I would say it's an 'easy read' but it's certainly not, due to the subject matter - instead, it's difficult and disturbing at times. This is an emotional book about the importance of hope and is thought provoking and inspiring. Lale and Gita's story will stay with me forever. ― Off The Shelf Books
This is in my opinion another book that should be read in schools to teach about the Holocaust and how it affected the people then and how it should teach us lessons for the future. The survivors and those that lost their lives deserve for their stories to live on. One last thing I need to say, have the tissues at hand and be prepared to read late into the night and have this book take over your mind and thoughts from the very beginning to the very end. ― Jeanz Book Read and Review
Lale's harrowing but unforgettable story is one of beauty and brutality, life and death, humanity and inhumanity, but through it all the flame of hope never dies. It is the beacon that sees him through the very worst of times and gives light to the rest of his days. An extraordinary story of an extraordinary love... ― Chorley Guardian
My words here will never do justice to such an important subject. All I can do is to just ask you to read it for yourself. Lale's story will stay with me and those who have read The Tattooist of Auschwitz. The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a powerful and deeply moving story of survival and also a remarkable love story. Both Lale and Gita's story will stay with me forever as these stories must be told for future generations to understand and to learn. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. ― The Last Word Book Review
The romance and love between Gita and Lale was heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measures and proves that the human spirit can't be crushed by evil and that despite the horrors they witnessed and the violence they experienced during their 3 years at Auschwitz, they were able to help and provide comfort for many others. This book really needs to be read by EVERYONE as it's a wonderful reminder of survival, hope and love. ― Compulsive Readers
Morris's sensitive and humane writing includes recognisable key events that have been covered in other stories about the Holocaust, anchoring the authenticity of Lale's tale, and here they resonate afresh as the devastating emotional impact of each event is renewed through his perspective. The Tattooist of Auschwitz features more than one story of courage under horrific conditions, this is a story that gives voice to the millions of lives that were lost. ― Pam Reader
It tells an incredibly powerful story that so many people had to live through. It shows that even in such an awful circumstance, people can still put others before themselves. ― Geeking Ginger
This story, full of beauty and hope, is based on years of interviews author Heather Morris conducted with real-life Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov. It is heart-wrenching, illuminating, and unforgettable. ― Boovers
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a very powerful and emotional read. This is a very emotive story of love and friendship in the most unlikely of places. I couldn't put this book down and ended up reading it in one three hour sitting last night. I had tears in my eyes while reading this, and by the time I reached the Author's Note and additional information I was properly crying. ― Little Miss No Sleep
Hats off to the author who has been able to listen to so much pain from the mouth of the real Lale and has so much skill to make this book an incredible story, who kidnaps from the first line and intrudes overwhelmingly into our daily life, forcing us to continue to know what it will happen, what will happen to Lale and Gita. A story of impact, shocking and proving that true love can overcome any storm, any atrocity. There is always something more powerful than evil and bad. ― The Shelter of Books
He was so brave and many people survived thanks to him. I'm so glad this book exists and I hope a lot of people read it. Never forget ― A Song of Book and Coffee
One of the most life affirming, courageous, unforgettable and human stories of the Holocaust: the love story of The Tattooist of Auschwitz ― The Hunt Post
A moving true love story that also solves a historical puzzle about the tattooist's identity ― Church Times
This is an important story and I am glad that Lale got the chance to tell it. It offers a unique perspective of the war that I hadn't encountered before ― Noctua Review
Heather has done a wonderful job in relating Lale's story. It is an emotional journey, and even now I still feel the emotion as I write this review, a few days after reading the book ― Vonnibee
This story, full of beauty and hope, is based on years of interviews author Heather Morris conducted with real-life Holocaust survivor and Auschwitz-Birkenau tattooist Ludwig (Lale) Sokolov. It is heart-wrenching, illuminating, and unforgettable ― Dressed To Read
This is a hugely involved and involving story of love in an impossible place...an inspiring story ― Waterford Today
the stories of survivors need to be told, without them there is more chance we will repeat the past. Morris does that in a sensitive way, and she brings a little lightness to a very dark story. ― MMCheryl
I am honestly finding it difficult to put into words how heart wrenching this book was. I generally would like to thank Lale Soklov for letting Heather Morris share his story of how he fought for his survival and for the one he loved. ― Hannah Reads
Stories of the Holocaust will always be harrowing and shocking no matter how many have gone before, but the character of Lale Sokolov makes this one uniquely romantic, life-affirming and even funny in places. ― The Literary Sofa
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris was very bit as harrowing as I expected, and I could not put it down. It tells the true story of Lale Sokolov, a Jewish prisoner who had a secret love affair within the walls of the concentration camp. It's a beautiful, shocking, upsetting and uplifting story; I thoroughly recommend reading it ― Panziereads
It took three years of thrice-weekly meetings between Lale Eisenberg and Heather Morris for the author to gain the survivor's trust. For that alone, readers should be indebted to Morris: Lale was a man of Herculean moral strength, and his Odyssean story of humanity, survival and eventual reunion with Gita, deserves a wide audience ― Jewish Chronicle
I honestly didn't realise how emotionally invested in this book I was until I put it down and had tears streaming down my face. Whether you have an interest in WW2 fiction or not, this is a book you must add to your list because the love story shared between Lale and Gita is one that deserves to be read - and Heather Morris has done a beautiful job at crafting it ― Louise Hudson
a touching and redemptive tale of love and selflessness ― Times Literary Supplement
a beautiful story of survival and ultimate redemption ― Sunday World, Eire
Haunting and unforgettable. 5/5 ― Read Like Me
What is striking about Heather Morris' new book, based on the powerful and true story of "Lale" Sokolov, and focusing on his experience in the most appalling of the Nazi camps, is how very readable it is...That Lale and Gita both survived, and found each other, is miraculous. The close bond forged between author and protagonist in the three years preceding the latter's death in 2006 provides the text with the authenticity of a memoir. This is a remarkable achievement ― The Tablet
Grim and distressing yet it shows, like Schindler's List, the power of humanity's bravery and compassion ― Nudge Book
Despite the subject matter, I found this a very easy read. It's the true story of Lale Sokolov - how he survived the horrors of Auschwitz and found love along the way ― This West London Life
Finding out Lale was not just a brave character in a book but a real life person made me smile. His tenacity, charm, intelligence and wit not only saved himself and Gita but hundreds of starving, beaten prisoners in the camp ― Brunching Bookworm
It's a story that shows that even in the darkest of places good things can happen and, as clichéd as this sounds, love can conquer all ― Reading Matters
The Tattooist of Auschwitz shows true human bravery. It emphasises the need for small acts of human kindness. It gives you the incentive to see the good in every day despite the struggles we each face ― Basic Gonzo
This was one of the most moving, haunting and uplifting stories I have ever read ― Busy Raising Wild Things
I would definitely recommend that you read this book. Although it's harrowing in parts, there is a light at the end of the tunnel in this instance. This is a completely extraordinary, real life story of survival and love. Heather provides the reader with the right balance of facts, the reality of the death camps, emotions, humour and most importantly, love. If you're anything like me when reading it it will make you feel every emotion possible and you'll cry both sad and happy tears. ― Ashleigh Bekkah
It will make you weep as well as educate you and, even though in the worst circumstances it is the very best of humanity ― Little Blog of Library Treasures
Lale's strength and courage take the reader through every known emotion and I would recommend anyone with a love of historical fiction to read this book. ― Triskele Books
The writing is strong and although the subject matter is harrowing, I found that Morris did not tend to be over-emotional or dramatic. She tells it as it is and spares no details ― Jan's Book Buzz
It shines a light on the power of hope, a determination to survive in spite of the barbarity of the camp. It left me feeling heartbroken and humble ― Emma's Book Blog
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a book that still brings shivers to my spine and tears to my eyes ― writing.ie
The writing style of this novel is intriguing. It delivers a concise immediacy that suggests confident, uncluttered movement as the narrative proceeds, gathering momentum and delivering its powerful storyline. No place here for maudlin sentimentality or over indulgence. The telling is crisp, the dialogue and the characters convincing. The territory may be familiar, but the viewpoint is refreshingly original. Above all, it is an engrossing read ― Historical Novel Society
a compelling and unforgettable story of hope, courage and survival ― Nenagh Guardian
A 5 star read from me - tough and shocking but I feel it's important these stories are still told so we never forget what took place. Heather Morris does a great job of telling Lale and Gita's story ― Always Need More Books
I read in about 4 days. I couldn't put it down, it was so exciting, sad and very easy to read ― Nanny On The Run
Richard Armitage captured the tone of the text just right. Although the story covers a tragic and delicate topic, there were times in which to laugh; to love. Such is life... and at these times we, as the listener, were uplifted by these small victories ― ReviewsFeed
Powerful, emotional, and unforgettable. I would say that this is a must-read ― Stephen Writes
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is unique as it offers an in-depth and extensive personal experience of an ordinary individual in the face of the warfare. Readers are immersed in each traumatising experience of Lale as this true story depicts the persecution and dehumanisation of the prisoners of Auschwitz-Birkenau ― Razz Mag
Lale is a very likeable character and The Tattooist of Auschwitz is an uplifting story of his strength, his character and his will to survive. It is the triumph of the human spirit.Whether you've never read a Holocaust book before or you've read hundreds, The Tattooist of Auschwitz is definitely worth a read ― Mum of Three World
Knowing that the characters within the story were real and the story that they had to tell was just as real really affected me and made the story all the more enjoyable for me. The story - in spite of its somewhat bleak content- has a happy ending and it's nice to see that sometimes, for some people during the war, there was a light at the end of the tunnel and they were allowed some happiness in their lives ― Hollie in Wanderlust
Lale is pragmatic and has a real desire to survive and this leads to him gaining the role of tattooist at Aushwitz and Berkenhau. The book follows his journey of desperation and love - showing what humans are capable of under extreme circumstances and when pushed to their limits ― What I'm Reading
I felt that unlike other books there was an incredible feeling of hope that ran throughout The Tattooist of Auschwitz. Hope is what we all need to keep us going and it is extraordinary that in Auschwitz some of the prisoners could find hope. Because of this I found the book very uplifting... This is a story of survival and endurance in the most extreme circumstances. It is an outstanding read so please read it and pass the book on to the younger generation ― Country Wives
Extraordinary and heartbreaking ― Aberdeen Press and Journal
What a wonderfully moving read! Such a heartbreaking - yet heart-warming - story of love, sacrifice and survival. I've not cried while reading a novel in a long time, but this one really got to me. And, most amazing of all, it's a true story... simply incredible ― Best Magazine
A powerful evocation of the everyday horrors of life as a prisoner in a concentration camp . . . message of how true love can transcend even the most hellishly inhuman environments. This is a perfect novel for book clubs and readers of historical fiction ― Publisher's Weekly
A compelling read touching on all that is both abhorrent and admirable in the human spirit ― Western People
The remarkable story of survival and how love triumphed in that lawless hell -- Richard Susskind ― The Times
To many, this book will be most appreciated for its powerful evocation of the everyday horrors of life as a prisoner in a concentration camp, while others will be heartened by the novel's message of how true love can transcend even the most hellishly inhuman environments. This is a perfect novel for book clubs and readers of historical fiction ― Publishers Weekly
Heartbreaking but very important ― Sheerluxe
A gorgeous love story, based on a true relationship between two innocent, young Jewish captives. It's easy to read, though not an easy subject, and you will cry - but I can't recommend it enough ― The Pool
You will not regret adding this beautifully written book to your summer reading list ― The Meath Herald
Brilliant and heart-breaking -- Louise Minchin ― BBC Breakfast
Most important book I've read this year... Can't recommend it highly enough -- Phil Williams ― BBC Radio 5 Live
A phenomenon ― The Times
Based on a true, moving and uplifting story, this is a life-affirming, courageous and unforgettable tale ― Western Morning News
Will stay with me for a very long time -- Sarah Mack ― Sunday Post
Beguiling ― The Guardian
About the Author
Born in New Zealand, Heather Morris is an international number one bestselling author, who is passionate about stories of survival, resilience and hope. In 2003, while working in a large public hospital in Melbourne, Heather was introduced to an elderly gentleman who 'might just have a story worth telling'. The day she met Lale Sokolov changed both their lives. Heather used Lale's story as the basis for The Tattooist of Auschwitz and her follow-up novel, Cilka's Journey, which have sold eight million copies worldwide. Three Sisters is her third novel. In 2020 she published Stories of Hope, her account of her journey to writing the story of Lale Sokolov's life.
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