Jeannie Opdyke Smith
IRENE’S
DAUGHTER
Stories of rescue, redemption, and second chances.
Daughter of Holocaust rescuer Irene Gut Opdyke, Author of The Other Side of Thirst and the exceptional memoir Irene’s Daughter.
About Author
JEANNIE
OPDYKE SMITH
Jeannie Opdyke Smith is the daughter of Irene Gut Opdyke, the Polish Catholic teen who hid twelve Jews during World War II—an act recognized around the world and dramatized on Broadway (Irena’s Vow) and on film. Carrying that legacy forward, Jeannie writes and speaks about moral courage and redemption for our moment. Her new memoir, Irene’s Daughter, explores what it means to inherit a story of unimaginable bravery—and to live it out in ordinary, costly ways. Her contemporary narrative, The Other Side of Thirst, offers a modern-day “Woman at the Well” journey from relational wreckage to renewal in Jesus. A sought-after voice for schools, universities, churches, and civic groups, Jeannie combines riveting storytelling with practical takeaways that equip listeners to choose compassion, take action, and begin again.
about the book
Books we have
book we have
In My Hands:
Memories of a Holocaust Rescuer
Irene’s story was told on Broadway in 2008 and was made into a major motion picture in 2024: Irena’s Vow.
At seventeen, Irene Gut Opdyke chose action over apathy—eavesdropping on Nazi plans, smuggling people to safety, and hiding twelve Jews in a German officer’s basement. This acclaimed memoir reads like a thriller and lands like a calling, showing how small, hidden choices can save lives. A starred School Library Journal pick and a staple for classrooms and book clubs.
Speaking topic
One Person Can Make a Difference!
Sharing the story of her Mother
Brief interview after the movie, Irena's Vow
live interview about the movie, Irena's Vow
Prime Time piece on my mother.
Blogs
Stories That Turn Readers into Doers
Explore Jeannie’s work—from a modern journey of redemption to a timeless testament of moral courage.
booking
information
Speaking invitations and media requests, we’re listening. Share a few details so we can get your message to the right place.
Email Us:
JeannieSmith9116@gmail.com