Belonging unfurls a richly woven memoir—brought to life by someone who saw it all, keeping it all vividly alive in uncanny memory—charting a voyage from the sharded remnants of war-torn Europe to the kaleidoscopic world of mid-century Los Angeles.

The book tells not merely a tale of geographical dislocation but a deep, lyrical exploration of cultural metamorphosis and personal reinvention. With each chapter, the author strings together an astonishing tapestry of poignant narratives and luminous reflections, capturing the essence of displacement and the yearning for home. Each page of the memoir is a heartfelt, unforgettably rendered story of a new life and new languages, cultures, and the bittersweet pangs of childhood in transition.

At UC Berkeley, the author stood at the helm of a hugely successful academic program, steering through the currents of educational innovation and mentorship. This experience infuses the memoir with a nuanced understanding of identity’s intricate dance with knowledge and community. The narrative is embroidered with threads of resilience, painted with the vibrant hues of new beginnings, and penned with the delicate precision of a scholar’s hand.

Belonging is a mosaic of memory and hope. Nina's story is a testament to the human spirit’s unquenchable quest for a place in the tapestry of humanity. This book is not just read—it is experienced, leaving an indelible imprint of the power of belonging.