This work investigates the resilience and continuity of Jewish communities in post-World War II Europe despite the profound trauma of the Holocaust and subsequent political challenges. Mark Kurlansky, an established journalist and historian, utilizes a blend of travelogue, personal interviews, and historical analysis to examine the motivations of individuals who chose to remain in or return to European cities. He argues that the contemporary Jewish experience in Europe is defined not merely by the memory of persecution, but by an active, ongoing effort to rebuild cultural and religious life in diverse urban centers.

Experts and readers frequently note the accessible, narrative-driven style Kurlansky employs to handle complex historical subject matter. The book is often cited as a valuable resource for understanding the contemporary social landscape of European Jewry beyond the standard historical focus on the Holocaust.