And I Was There

As our nation's discourse devolves into anti-immigrant ranting, this book reminds us that our country was built on immigrant contributions. In this story, Martha Elliott describes the immigrant experience, with all of its struggles, and she shows the immigrant contributions to American life and culture. The book is largely factual, and the accuracy of the history makes the book more engrossing. It is a good read, and I would recommend that anyone who is interested in the real story of immigrants, not just the fear-mongering accounts, read this book.

As our nation's discourse devolves into anti-immigrant ranting, this book reminds us that our country was built on immigrant contributions. In this story, Martha Elliott describes the immigrant experience, with all of its struggles, and she shows the immigrant contributions to American life and culture. The book is largely factual, and the accuracy of the history makes the book more engrossing. It is a good read, and I would recommend that anyone who is interested in the real story of immigrants, not just the fear-mongering accounts, read this book.

Elliott's tale of her grandfather's life is a feel good story. Leaving his humble roots to immigrate to America you will invest in Stepan's challenges and cheer his triumphs. Through hard work, sheer will and an indomitable spirit not only does he live the American dream, but sees those same characteristics take root in his children and grandchildren. Elliott's loving tribute to her grandfather is a true gift.

Elliott's tale of her grandfather's life is a feel good story. Leaving his humble roots to immigrate to America you will invest in Stepan's challenges and cheer his triumphs. Through hard work, sheer will and an indomitable spirit not only does he live the American dream, but sees those same characteristics take root in his children and grandchildren. Elliott's loving tribute to her grandfather is a true gift.

Martha Elliott has written a very enjoyable historical novel, based on official records and her family’s memories of the life of her grandfather, Stepan Bemko. She includes slices of Ukrainian history and folklore, and cultural information from a country most Americans know little about. The book creates a picture of one immigrant’s journey across Europe, the entry process at Ellis Island, and the building of a new life in a new country, experiences shared by the forefathers of millions of Americans, who left difficult circumstances seeking a better life.