The Memory Keeper of Kyiv, Reader Letter
by Erin Litteken | March 12, 2022 |
Dear Readers,
The seeds of this story took root in my mind even before Russia invaded Crimea in 2014, and now I sit drafting this letter while the news of Russia’s brutal attack on Ukraine–its cities, its civilians, its future–plays on the television in the background. I never imagined the release of my novel on a past assault of the Ukrainian people would coincide with such a parallel tragedy.
Ukrainians today are fighting for their country with a strength and tenacity that has captivated the world, but it is impossible to deny that history is repeating itself. It’s horrifying, and we must do better.
As the granddaughter of a Ukrainian refugee from WW2, the poignancy of this war devastates me. While we can’t change history, we can all learn from it and do something to help the Ukrainian people today. I’m so pleased that my publisher, Boldwood Books, will be donating a portion of each sale to DEC’s Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal.
My heart goes out to the brave Ukrainians defending their country, their culture, and their lives, both then and now.
Slava Ukrayini!
Erin
Thank You very much for interesting and true book.The book is very emotional and fascinating.I hope it will be translate into Ukrainian language soon and I hope this book will be recommended for reading in Ukrainian schools .
Maksym from Sumy,Ukraine,
Thank you, Maksym. I’m so glad you enjoyed my book. It would be wonderful to see it translated into Ukrainian one day.
Just finished your book. My grandfather was from Keiv.
Although he was in America before this time, he never said a word about his life.
I can only thank you for informing me as to what and how people made it throughout this time period.
Just finished your book. My grandfather was from Keiv.
Although he was in America before this time, he never said a word about his life.
I can only thank you for informing me as to what and how people made it throughout this time period.
Thank you so much for reading! So many people never talked about the hard times they endured. I’m thrilled that my novel could give you some insight into your family’s past.
Hello Erin ! I just finished your book this morning and I was in tears. A so touching story that’ll stay in my mind and heart. I have read a lot about the Holodomor and what people of Ukraine have been through, that’s just terrible. I am in awe by the strength of the survivors and how they could rebuild a life later. Thankyou. I’ll buy the second book. Best greetings from France.
Hello Christiane! Thank you so much for reading and your kind words. I, too, am in awe of Ukrainians—both then and now. I hope you enjoy the second book as well!