Mark Klempner
Mark Klempner is a folklorist, oral historian, and writer whose works often focus on social justice and the preservation of personal narratives within historical contexts. He received his BA from Cornell University and his MA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His academic and professional work has concentrated on capturing the stories of marginalized or overlooked groups, which he believes are essential for understanding broader historical narratives.
Klempner's book, 'The Heart Has Reasons: Dutch Rescuers of Jewish Children During the Holocaust', is a poignant exploration of courage and compassion during one of history's darkest times. It profiles several Dutch individuals who risked their lives to save Jewish children from Nazi persecution. Through extensive interviews and research, Klempner provides a deeply human perspective on the Holocaust, highlighting the extraordinary acts of ordinary people.
Beyond his work on the Holocaust, Klempner has contributed to various scholarly and popular publications, and he speaks frequently on issues related to oral history, ethics, and the importance of storytelling in shaping our understanding of the past and influencing the future. His dedication to using oral history as a means to promote social justice and human rights is evident throughout his career.