The Russian Daughter

With the Czarist empire in turmoil, a young Mennonite couple in what is now Ukraine adopts a Russian baby. Over the next years their lives twist, alter, and face very unexpected challenges. Amalia and Isaak Albrecht's new family is not at all what they had dreamed of; nevertheless, it is a treasure essential for them to nourish and protect in the violent and unstable era of the Russian Revolution. In plain, direct language, Sarah Klassen offers a story of hardship, uncertain loyalty, and strange moments of gratitude. At the novel's centre is the surprising and defiant Sofia, the adopted Russian daughter, so unlike everyone around her, yet still needing love. This quiet, delicately written novel explores themes of belonging, responsibility, and the places we call home.


About the Author
SARAH KLASSEN is an acclaimed Manitoba author of fiction and poetry. For many years an English teacher in the Winnipeg public school system, she also taught at summer institutes in Lithuania and Ukraine. Her published work includes eight poetry collections, the most recent being The Tree of Life (2020). Previous works of fiction are The Peony Season (2000), A Feast of Longing (2007), and The Wittenbergs (2013). Her poetry has won National Magazine, Gerald Lampert, and Canadian Authors Association awards, while her fiction has won High Plains and Margaret McWilliams awards.