About the Book: In 1941, Nazi forces laid siege to Leningrad in the longest blockade in history, leading to the deaths of over 750,000 people, mostly from starvation. Amid this devastation stood the world’s first seed bank, housing a priceless collection of plant specimens. As evacuation efforts failed, the scientists guarding it faced an agonizing choice—feed the starving city or protect seeds that could prevent future global famine. This gripping historical account reveals a heroic struggle between scientific duty and human survival during World War II. A powerful blend of wartime history, agricultural science, and ethical sacrifice.