Olia Hercules has written a memoir that gives insight into a family’s life experience in Ukraine. I came across the book, Strong Roots, on the shelf of new releases (2025) at the library. I don’t often read memoir but I was drawn to this book.
Hercules is a chef. I enjoyed her description of markets and favorite recipes. Her parent’s home in Ukraine had an orchard, vegetable and herb garden, and flowers. I learned that dill is popular spice. Meal preparation and the enjoyment of food is an important part of family life. Borsch, a stew with beet root, cabbage, potatoes and carrots, is highlighted. In the stress of war, making it and serving it is comforting.
The history of Ukraine’s relationship with Russia is woven throughout the memoir. Between 1917 and 1924 different factions of Russia, Germany and native Ukrainians fought for possession of the land. Eventually Ukraine was absorbed into the USSR. When famine occurred, it was exacerbated when Russia exported Ukrainian grain.
Under the Russian communist party rule, Hercules’ grandmother suffered deportation from Ukraine to northern Russia. The farm of her grandmother’s parents was seized. In the current war Hercules’ parents have fled from their village as soldiers took possession of homes and gardens.
The book is a good read for getting a broader understanding of the people of Ukraine. It reminds me of the culture of food tied to my Finnish heritage and Finland’s trouble with Russia.
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Thanks bunches for sharing with Sweet Tea & Friends this month dear friend. I’m so happy you’re here. And I did add this book to my Kindle list.
I’m going to have to check this out. My grandparents on my mom’s side were from Ukraine. I’m interested in history and foods. I’ve been teaching myself some recipes I grew up with
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