This story of Hanah's Sheep and Cattle has been endearing. As the reader follows Hanah in her sojourns, 'traveling' from Palistine to Lithuania to Russia, seeing commune life vs city living in Moscow, we 'endure' the rigors of tending cattle and sheep and then the humiliation and loneliness of life in the city by stark constrast, and of being seen as 'inferior,' along with Hannah. The reader will also meet Zionists, Communists and artists. The horror and effects of the Great Terror under Stalin are touched on as well as the joys, sorrows and exhaustion of motherhood and of being loved by a faithful husband.

In effect, this narrative is rather autobiographical, even historical, which I liked. At book's end the true story of the life of the author, Shira Gorshman, is summarized. Hanah's story reflects it.

Hanah's story has been translated into English from Yiddish, a detail I found of interest. Additionally, there are translator's notes regarding name spellings and a glossary for terms used whether Yiddish, Russian or otherwise.

All in all, I found this to be a satisfying read and in my opinion, others will like it too.

~ Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger ~

May 2025

Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGally and the publisher.