In this episode of Search for Meaning, Rabbi Yoshi Zweiback speaks with author Ralph Shayne about his graphic novel Hour of Need: The Daring Escape of the Danish Jews during World War II, illustrated by Danish comics artist Tatiana Goldberg.

Inspired by the childhood experience of Shayne’s mother, the book tells the remarkable story of the 1943 rescue of Denmark’s Jewish community. When the Nazis moved to deport Danish Jews, ordinary citizens—neighbors, teachers, clergy, fishermen, and members of the resistance—risked their lives to help more than 7,000 Jews escape across the Øresund Strait to safety in Sweden. 

Developed in partnership with the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center, Hour of Need brings this extraordinary chapter of Holocaust history to life through powerful storytelling and evocative illustrations. 

In their conversation, Rabbi Zweiback and Shayne explore family memory, Jewish identity, the moral courage of ordinary people, and the unique power of graphic storytelling to bring history to new generations. The episode also reflects on the enduring lessons of Denmark’s rescue effort—and what it means for societies today when individuals choose courage over indifference.

Learn more and explore the resources connected to this story:

Book: Hour of Need: The Daring Escape of the Danish Jews during World War II
https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Hour-of-Need/Ralph-Shayne/9781499813579

Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center
https://www.ilholocaustmuseum.org

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