Semolina Porridge for Three

A story describing the harsh trials the families faced during the war is presented through a subtle, moving plotline, where every episode is infused with a sense of loss and hope. This is an emotional account of life, overcoming difficulties, and preserving memory.

Mom covered her face with her hands and quietly swayed, making not a sound. Marisha couldn’t look at her in that state. She brought the brooch that had been left on the dressing table and tried to pin it onto her mother’s dress, sitting down beside her. Mom was distracted and looked at the brooch—one they had bought together long ago at a jewelry store. The brooch was shaped like a small bouquet of flowers, decorated with sparkling stones that reminded her of an oleander branch—one her mom loved so much.

“Do you like this brooch?” Mom asked Marisha.

“Very much,” Marisha answered honestly. “It’s like a part of our oleander.”

Mom kissed Marisha and pinned the brooch onto her blouse, under the collar.

The 20th century became a time of enormous tragedies and trials for humanity. The events of the 1940s still resonate in people’s hearts. One such testament is the book by Israeli writer Lina Gorodetskaya, “Porridge for Three.”