Grisha’s incredible story took me on a journey into a past of change, upheaval, and triumph. What an amazing, unique human being he was! I am in awe of the danger, the courage, and adventurous spirit. What a canvas he created! He took me to a village that I never knew existed, and introduced me to a society I never would have known about – people who became real to me – his mother, grandfather, Uncle Basil, Anna, etc. I entered into a new kind of home, and Grisha opened the door and let me in. The crowds, the temperaments, the places, the revolution itself- how close I felt to it all! And then, suddenly, to have had all this past, as he entered a new world, to become grounded, steady, a devoted husband, landowner, and loyal employee. It was destiny and his fervent hope that you found that magical box, which manifested into a wonderful book. I wish the while world could share it with everyone. This story should be seen on a big screen. It is Grisha’s War and Peace!
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GRISHA’S LOOP – That was quite a read. Your Dad sure had a lot bottled up inside. I loved the
way he described things – like snowflakes, sunrises and sunsets and wolves. He had such an amazing story to tell. I so wish he hadn’t stopped when he did. For me the story was Dr. Zhivagoesque (I that is a word!) The loss of both parents early on, the raising by aunt, uncle and grandfather and their influence on his life, the wolves at Yuriatan, the blizzard on the way back to school, the revolution, becoming a white Russia-it was all so real.
You really deserve a round of applause for having the tenacity amid all those obstacles you faced to get his words translated and molded into a very readable story. Bravo!
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This is an amazing collection of your father’s story-your bookending parts that supplement this story and add detail – wonderful pictures etc. “An immigrant’s “ story – Such a treasure for his grandchildren and beyond. (CL)
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I read your book in two days …and WOW! You are to be congratulated! Kudos! It is a wonderful thing you have done. Your inspiration and fortitude allowed you to produce something so meaningful for your family today and for future generations. This is something you can feel good about…something you can know is the ultimate memorial gift to your father. Tears came to my eyes as I began to read your father’s words about how his mother had to give him up to her in-laws. I fully understand why he had to write down all that he did, and how that inspired you to give years of your life to create a permanent memorial record. I am especially touched in reading this because being the gerontologist that I am (simply having spent fifty years plus researching my children’s genealogy) I have great respect for anyone who cares enough about family history to keep a record for children and grandchildren. I agree that this would make a great movie!
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What a read! To have an actual first hand accounting of events during that time period is really interesting. I’m not necessarily a history buff as some are, but I found it quite fascinating.
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I find the book really interesting. The author is a concrete thinker as she didn’t exaggerate the story-making it susceptible to attract more readers. Her style of writing is pretty standard with easy to discern words. Writings like this should be encouraged unlike some other neophyte authors. The story not only talks about journey and earthly battles; it also gives inspiration to mankind of being humble – to always remember your roots as an individual. I am giving her 98.26% and she has passed all the parameters of good writing.
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It is a very interesting book!
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It’s almost a Horatio Alger story. Grisha overcomes innumerable obstacles to make a good life for himself and his family.
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Very interesting story. Makes us think.
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I have been reading and enjoying your friend’s book. I am also finding that my knowledge of history is once again sorely lacking. Even the preface was interesting knowing that she had a book inside her, but putting it aside until her grandson asked a question. Must have been a challenge to translate it and make it relative. Thank you for sharing the story.
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What a wonderful accomplishment you have achieved, about a man who conquered so many barriers in his lifetime. Your father was so strong and determined to be successful. I can’t imagine living through what he experienced. There were so many barriers and hardships, but he made it.
You’ve written and vividly recorded those experiences and, as you stated, some of them must have been very painful memories that haunted him. I was so relieved that you also have recorded happy times with your family and home.
You’ve shown the same determination as your father in accomplishing Grisha’s Loop. Thank you for letting me read it. It’s a gripping story that you have successfully told.
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The book arrived the other day, and I must say that I am impressed. Whoever handled the final editing and paste-up did a first-rate job, and the book is beautiful from cover to cover. I am proud of you for having seen this project through.
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Marsha- I love your book. I learned so much about Russia- and really about myself. I never thought about having a “thread” of life or knots or loops. Guess I’ve had them but never noticed or thought about them
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The BOOK is beautiful! I started reading it and found it difficult to put down. I’m a slow reader, but your history information and writing are so beautiful and interesting. The print is easy on the eyes and notations so helpful. You are certainly an accomplished writer. I already peeked in the back at the photos. Your Dad was a very handsome man, and I look forward to learning more about him. I never met him- only your mo.
Your dedications are so “YOU”. Family ties are strong. Your acknowledgements sincere and appreciative – also – “You”.
When I complete the book, I will write again with more notes of appreciation. What an accomplishment!
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I just finished reading your book. What an effort on your part! Grisha trained you well.
He write so beautifully about such ugly times… and you have his knack for seeing the beauty in all that is about us. I liked the further explanation of your “wonder spots” on the wall outside of your kitchen window. I look forward to the book discussion.
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What a pleasure to read your story. The information about your father and your thoughts about his “loop” affecting your “loop”.
I think you are a very good writer- clearly expressing yourself. I was particularly struck by your descriptions of events in the manuscript. I felt as if I was right there – very vivid. It was like watching a movie. It should go to a movie publisher. And you have some excellent pictures to fill out the story. Thank you for letting me read this.
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The memoir arrived safely and is spectacular!! I started it today and had to tear myself away.
The format, background, dedications, colored illustrations, literary quotes, maps, and photos, and so much more. Love the photos of your Mother, especially as they head off on their honeymoon!
Happy, yet sad, memories so beautifully preserved. Someday your girls and grandchildren will be so pleased to have these personal reminiscences.
You must feel a great sense of relief and accomplishment after all the years of false starts and obstacles. After finishing the book we would be happy to share our impressions.
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Perhaps you’ve heard me mention this book. The author, Marsha, was a freshman on my corridor where I was a senior counselor at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst. She was also my “little sister” in our sorority. She has remained a dear friend, and I thought you might enjoy perusing her book.
My review for Amazon:
Reading “Grisha’s Loop is a bargain, as you will be getting a book within a book. The author’s personal experiences and observations book-end her father’s amazing story, written in beautiful prose in his second language. It tells of unbelievable challenges, courage and accomplishments in the life of a brave man who lived through one of our most turbulent times. This book would
be a fascinating movie.
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What an awesome job you did, Marsha, writing a book about your father and family—
You did a stellar job with your book club presentation. Congratulations to you!
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Very good book – I highly recommend it – Very interesting read
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I am so impressed with Grisha’s Loop. What an amazing undertaking!
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I hope that Grisha’s Loop is selling briskly. You have every right to be proud of it – how many parents are lucky enough to be the subject of such a labor of love?
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I bought your book. I give you a lot of credit for all the work of putting it all together. You did a good job. I especially enjoyed the early part about your father’s early life in Russia.
