Astrida Barbins-Stahnke Libros

Set against the backdrop of World War II, this novel explores the struggles of the Latvian people as they navigate the tumultuous conflicts between Communist Russia and Nazi Germany. The narrative unfolds in two parts, depicting the dislocation and scattering of a nation yearning for unity and freedom. Amidst the challenges of exile, ethnic communities foster hope through schools and festivals, embodying resilience and dedication. The story culminates in the collapse of the Soviet Union, marking a pivotal moment for Latvia's quest for independence.

Set in war-torn Germany during the final years of World War II, the story unfolds through Milda's Brzi-Arj's poignant flashbacks to her early teens. As she navigates the chaos and devastation of 1944-45, Milda reflects on the impact of the war on her life and the lives of those around her. The narrative captures her struggles, resilience, and the haunting memories that shape her identity in a shattered world.

Set in the Dark Ages, this narrative explores themes of exile and the complexities of human nature. It intertwines elements of an adult fairy tale with a tragic storyline, revealing how innocent individuals become ensnared in the consequences of misplaced fears and rigid laws. The story reflects on the timeless struggles faced by humanity, suggesting that despite the passage of time, certain aspects of human experience remain unchanged.

Set against the backdrop of the Soviet Union's decline, the narrative follows Milda Arajs as she embarks on a transformative journey. After marrying Peteris Vanags, a one-armed veteran, Milda honors her promise to her daughter by traveling to Soviet Latvia to celebrate the birth of a new generation. Their decade-long happiness in Washington, D.C. is tested by the political upheaval that follows the Soviet collapse, challenging their dreams and the stability of their exiled community. Themes of longing, identity, and the impact of historical change permeate the story.

A collection of 42 Latvian folktales is presented in a dramatic and engaging style, appealing to readers of all ages and backgrounds. Each story is selected for its educational value, while the accompanying illustrations subtly convey universal wisdom through symbolic imagery, enhancing the reading experience.

The novel is about the Latvian people who suffered in and around World War II, as the two major world powers--Communist Russia and Nazi Germany--converged in fierce battles on the Amber land at the Baltic Sea until it was conquered by one, then the other, and again by the first, and its two million people were as if sliced up in many parts and scattered throughout the world. Divided with each part longing for the other, the nation survived the hot and cold wars, keeping the hope of freedom and the return home alive. That hope was nurtured in ethnic communities and especially enforced at supplemental schools and festivals. As a portion of refugees spun off and assimilated in their various host countries, a large remnant remained and kept the flame of freedom alive. This was no easy and cheap task. It called for dedication, sacrifice, money, and courage. It was watched and monitored from within and without for half a century until, in 1990, the Soviet Union collapsed, the Iron Curtain and the Berlin Wall fell, and the euphoria touched every East European country. As a participant in that so-called exile state, I began writing my version of the experience after the Milwaukee festival, filtering it through the consciousness of my main character Milda Berzina-Arajs, who, coming out of mourning for her husband, Karlis Arajs, arrives at the festival, ready to turn a new leaf in her life. During the four days with like-minded people, interesting events, and common recollections of her childhood, the war and postwar experiences in a displaced persons' camp flash before her in a swirling kaleidoscope and, at the end, throws her in the direction she did not plan to go. Book I ends there. It is a meditative, reflective life-based fiction that probes deeply into Milda's psyche and also of other characters who travel the journey with her. Through Milda's thoughts and actions, we see that the lasting impact of war and how it branches out and goes on onto the third and fourth generations