“An utterly spellbinding journey full of unexpected turns and nuanced characters, In Berlin reflects a triumph of the human spirit in the face of unexpected catastrophe. In his second novel, Silberstein has given us a gift: a deeply moving opportunity to look at tragedy with new eyes, and in doing so, to find hope and beauty in the most surprising of places.” —Vivek Murthy, MD, MBA. 19th and 21st Surgeon General of the United States

“This is a page-turner of a novel rich in ideas. The story is packed with moments I recognize and yet it is wholly original, with characters who will surprise you again and again. They remind us what it's like to be alive now, in a tumultuous era of dazzling possibilities and tremendous challenges. An important book.” —Stanley Sagov, MD, former Chair, Department of Medicine, Mount Auburn Hospital

“Silberstein's portrayal of life with a spinal cord injury is about as intimate as one can get without actually having experienced SCI on a personal level. The reader enters the protagonists’ lives and travels their difficult and complex journey, from devastation and anger to acceptance and, finally, empowerment and hope. His novel is for the universe, and all readers will find bits of themselves in places they might not have realized.” —Heather Krill, author of the novel True North and writer for the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation

“This beautifully crafted story resonated deeply with me, capturing the challenges and triumphs of love, faith and resilience in an authentic way. Truly moving.” —Hend ElShemy, Egyptian paraplegic English teacher

“In Berlin is a poignant and timely story about resilience, identity, and the quiet courage it takes to rebuild a life after profound change. Silberstein masterfully intertwines Anna’s journey of adapting to life after sudden paralysis with Batul’s pursuit of a new beginning in a foreign country. Both women navigate different forms of displacement—one physical, the other cultural—yet their stories are bound by a shared search for independence, belonging, and purpose.” —Ashley Lyn Olson, founder of wheelchairtraveling.com

“Batul’s encounters in Aleppo and abroad mirror many Syrians’ experiences of starting anew multiple times. The detailed portrayal of her struggles and triumphs is a poignant reminder of the strength and resilience within us all. This story is both deeply personal and widely relatable, offering a profound exploration of agency and self-belief. Batul’s journey is a testament to the human spirit, and it has left an indelible mark on my heart.” —Ali Aljasem, PhD, scholar in Conflict Studies at Utrecht University

“The author masterfully captures the local details of Syria with precision and authenticity through the character of Batul and her family. The narrative delves deeply and systematically into the structure of the Syrian family as shaped by war, raising questions about the social transformations that have reshaped it in its aftermath. Moreover, the text sheds light on the afflictions that have plagued this family in the realm of exile and displacement, portraying the struggles it has had to endure—not from a broad, detached perspective, but through an intimate exploration of Batul’s psyche.” —Ahmad Barghash, author of the novel Thalath Shamat Yahrasna al-Madina (Three Beauty Marks Guard the City)

“Through a captivating story, In Berlin conveys the psychosocial aspects of a life-changing neurological injury that are often overshadowed by the injury alone. The novel is a reminder both of what is possible after a spinal cord injury, and that advocacy for oneself is paramount in the recovery process.” —Erika Dixon, PT, Doctor of Physical Therapy, Neurologic Clinical Specialist

“A captivating and thought-provoking page-turner. Through intricate storytelling, carefully researched details, and exceptional insights into human behavior, the novel presents a tale of resilience. The story is particularly significant in our current climate where cultural biases often overshadow empathy and understanding. Silberstein takes us on a journey that lets us see beyond surface-level differences and appreciate the deeper connections that bind us together.” —Zeba Hyder, Patient Advocate

"In Berlin is a beautiful novel about one young woman's determination to rebuild her life after paralysis. I'm still thinking about Anna, Batul, and their families, about how the choices we make and the people we encounter, even in the most casual circumstances, can change our lives in huge and unexpected ways. Written with sensitivity and attention to detail, it depicts paralysis and rehabilitation in ways that will feel authentic to anyone who has experienced a spinal cord injury and educate those who thankfully have not." —Debra Poli, United Spinal Association Chapter Leader