Let me share an unexpected encounter that led to this exciting new addition that is coming to Kamloops community. Picture this: I’m at the Arctic Congress in Bodø, Norway, surrounded by scientists, policymakers, and researchers worldwide. Amidst the buzz of climate discussions and polar strategies, something extraordinary happened.
Andrii Hladii, a Ukrainian author living in Iceland, spotted my name and made his way to the Bodø stand with Ukraine gathering, where we were standing with people of Bodo and Congress participants in solidarity with people of Ukraine. As we connected over our shared heritage, Andrii began to share his life experiences in Iceland. His vivid descriptions of the unique blend of modern life with ancient traditions had me captivated.
But when Andrii mentioned his book, “Iceland: Northern Days at Midnight,” my excitement reached a whole new level. Here was a chance not just to read about Iceland, but to see it through the eyes of a Ukrainian. It was a lightbulb moment – why not bring these unique perspectives to our community in Kamloops?
This serendipitous meeting sparked an idea: to create a new e-book library that would support Ukrainian authors and offer our community a window into diverse cultures and experiences. It’s a way to broaden our horizons without leaving home and to support Ukrainian voices in the process.
Andrii’s book is now a proud part of our collection:
“Iceland: Northern Days at Midnight” by Andrii Hladii
Discover hidden Icelandic paths, marvel at waterfalls and glaciers, and learn about the quirks of this mysterious northern island. It’s like a virtual trip to Iceland, guided by a Ukrainian friend!
Start your Icelandic adventure: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/islandiia-ebook
This chance encounter at the Arctic Congress has blossomed into something truly special for our Kamloops community. It’s opened up a whole new world of literature that bridges cultures and shares unique perspectives.
So, dear readers, get ready for a literary journey like no other. We’re bringing a piece of Ukraine, and the world as seen through Ukrainian eyes, right to your e-readers. And this is just the beginning!
In July, my upcoming community e-library just got a major Ukrainian upgrade! I’ve added new amazing e-books from Vikhola publications, and trust me, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or love a good story, there’s something here for everyone. I try to select books that complement our Diaspora Studies Program so everyone can learn more about history, cuisine, Ukrainian culture and language.
Once the e-library is set in my basement, local community members can borrow a copy of the book, like in a regular library and review it and decide if they want to buy it from the local publisher or return it back so other Kamloopsians can review the e-book. One reviewer at a time. I hope every city in Canada will create a modern Ukrainian library Bookshelf and hope we will have local public libraries and university libraries purchase the best books about Ukraine to inform Canadians about new authors and stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine. If you want to offer your suggestions on books about Ukraine either in Ukrainian or English/French let me know. I will create a few lists in the fall and send them to TRU Library and other universities I support to consider adding to their collections.
So let’s talk about why this is so awesome for our community to have a Ukrainian e-library:
- 24/7 reading? Check!
- Ukrainian culture at your fingertips? Double-check!
- Eco-friendly book binging? You bet!
- Connecting with your neighbours over shared reads? 100%!
Now, drum roll please… 🥁 Here are our July additions from Vikhola Publisher:
“Canada: From Peach Gardens to the Polar Circle” by Yevhen Lakinskyi
Think you know Canada? Think again! This book will take you on a wild ride from coast to coast.
Sneak peek: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/kanada-ebook
“History of Crimea: A Short Tale of a Long Journey” by Hulnara Abdulaieva
Crimea’s got more plot twists than a soap opera. This book covers them all.
Time travel here: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/istoriia-krymu-ebook
“Lutsk: A Thousand Years of Life and History” by Oleksandr Kotys
Castles, intrigue, and a dash of legend. Lutsk has it all!
Start your adventure: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/lutsk-ebook
“Ordinary Exotics: The Story of Plants We Eat” by Oleksii Kovalenko
Ever wondered about the drama in your fruit bowl? This book spills the tea (or should I say, the juice?).
Get juicy details: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/zvychaina-ekzotyka-ebook
“Your Best Recipes” by Tetiana Yushina
90 recipes that’ll make your taste buds dance. Gordon Ramsay, watch out!
Cook up a storm: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/tvoi-naikraschi-recepty-ebook
“Iceland: Northern Days at Midnight” by Andrii Hladii
Volcanoes, glaciers, and unpronounceable names. Welcome to Iceland!
Chill out here: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/islandiia-ebook
“The Best Book About Camino” by Maksym Bespalov
Part travelogue, part fiction, 100% adventure. Lace up your virtual hiking boots!
Start walking: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/naikrascha-knyzhka-pro-kamino-ebook
“Sweden: A Model for Assembly…” by Yuliia Yurchuk
IKEA, ABBA, and… gender equality? There’s more to Sweden than you think!
Assemble your knowledge: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/shvetsiya-ebook
“Zoological Excursion in the Supermarket” by Leonid Horobets
Your grocery list will never look the same after this read.
Shop smarter: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/zoologichna-ekskursiya-ebook
“Seeing in Ukrainian” by Olha Dubchak
Words paint pictures, and this book is a masterpiece of linguistic art.
View it here: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/dubchak-bachyty-u-ebook
“Behind the Empire’s Curtains” by Vira Aheieva
A literary deep-dive into Ukraine’s fight against empire.
Peek behind the curtain: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/za-lashtunkamy-imperiyi-ebook
“Anyone Can Write Analytics” by Kateryna Zarembo et al.
Spoiler: You don’t need to be boring to be analytical!
Analyze this: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/pysaty-analityku-mozhe-kozhen-ebook
“Linguistics on the World Map” by Rustam Hadzhiiev
From Navajo code talkers to Belgian train crashes, language is wild!
Map it out: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/lingvistyka-nakarti-svitu-ebook
“Everything You Know About Ireland is True, But…” by Maksym Bespalov
Leprechauns, Guinness, and… a complex history? Sláinte to that!
Irish up your knowledge: https://www.vikhola.com/product-page/bespalov-irlandiya
Phew! That’s a lot of awesome reading material, folks! Whether you’re brushing up on your Ukrainian, exploring new cultures, or just looking for a good read, our upcoming e-library has covered you. I hope to make the library operational before the end of 2024 and will keep everyone posted. If you cannot wait you can always get books online and enjoy reading now!
P.S. Don’t forget to share your thoughts on these books with your neighbours. Who knows? You might start Kamloops’ hottest new book club! 😉
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