A Tale of Survival and New Beginnings
William Planes’ book, “Platanides: Through The Eye of The Storm,” chronicles the incredible journey of the Platanides family from Smyrna to America. This article explores their story of survival, resilience, and the pursuit of a better life.
Fleeing Smyrna: A Family’s Escape
The Destruction of Smyrna
The fall of Smyrna in 1922 marked the beginning of a perilous journey for the Platanides family. The book details their desperate escape from the city as it was engulfed in chaos and violence.
Seeking Refuge in Greece
After escaping Smyrna, the Platanides family found temporary refuge in Greece. The book describes the challenges they faced as refugees, struggling to rebuild their lives in a foreign land.
The Journey to Crete
Settling on the Island of Crete
The Platanides family eventually settled on the Island of Crete, where they faced new challenges during the German occupation of World War II. The book provides a vivid account of life on the island during this tumult