Kati Preston is a Holocaust survivor, author, and motivational speaker dedicated to promoting tolerance and fighting hate. Born in Hungary in 1939, she was the only child in a loving family. When the Nazis invaded in 1944, Kati—whose father was Jewish—was hidden in a barn by a brave Christian woman. Her father and 28 other family members were murdered in Auschwitz.
Determined to live meaningfully, Kati pursued careers in journalism, fashion, and education before dedicating herself to sharing her story. She speaks in schools, libraries, and public institutions, emphasizing survival over victimhood and the urgency of combating prejudice.
A mother of four and grandmother of four, Kati travels across New England sharing her story of resilience. She received a commendation from Governor Chris Sununu and helped pass legislation mandating Holocaust education in New Hampshire. You can watch more interviews, explore her books, and get in touch through Kati's website.
The film, HIDDEN—The Kati Preston Story, is based on the award-winning novel HIDDEN: A True Story of the Holocaust, written by Kati Preston and illustrated by Dilleen Marsh. It's a powerful graphic memoir told from the perspective of a five-year-old child. Born in 1939 Hungary to a Jewish father and Catholic mother, Kati survived the Holocaust while twenty-eight members of her extended Jewish family perished in Auschwitz by being hidden away. Through vivid color illustrations and heartfelt narration, the memoir captures her early childhood experience of loss, survival, and the profound importance of memory and resilience. The novel received two 2024 awards from the Children's Book Council: Teachers' & Librarians' Favorite selections—an honor that recognizes outstanding children's literature. You can purchase a paperback version of HIDDEN on Amazon.com.
Dilleen Marsh is a professional illustrator and oil painter based in Utah, working from her home studio. She spent 14 years as a Designer and Senior Designer for The New Era Magazine, followed by a successful freelance career creating illustrations for children's books and other publications. Marsh has authored and illustrated 10 children's books, designed educational art curriculum, and taught at the university level. Her vibrant artistic style—described as "clearly, boldly, and joyfully"—focuses on communicating ideas in a visually engaging, accessible way. Her portfolio spans a diverse range of oil paintings, from whimsical landscapes to still lifes and narrative scenes. Learn more by visiting her website, Dilleen Marsh Fine Art.
Facebook
Twitter
Email