An excellent read for any and all readers! Author comes at you with both barrels and knocks you out of your shoes! Great job fleshing out all the characters. I give this book FIVE stars! Definitely recommend!

This is a fascinating glimpse into Soviet Jewish literature that rarely makes it into English translation. Gorshman's autobiographical novel follows Hanah through some of the most brutal chapters of 20th century history - from Jewish communes in Palestine to Stalinist Crimea to WWII survival. What makes it compelling isn't just the historical sweep, but how it captures the specific experience of Soviet Yiddish writers and Jewish life under Stalin. The translation gives English readers access to a voice from a literary tradition that's been largely forgotten. If you're interested in translated literature or want to understand Jewish experiences beyond the usual narratives, this offers something genuinely different.

A truly fascinating read about Soviet Yiddish writers. I can't compare a translation like this to any other - it's unique and compelling!

Hanah's Sheep and Cattle is a fascinating Soviet Jewish autobiography by Shira Gorsham. The story takes place in the 1920s and 1930s into World War II and is about hard work, sorrow, determination, social justice, hope and love. But it's unlike any other book I've read with a beautiful unique perspective and engaging writing style. Written simply, it is raw and heartfelt, sad yet warm. Another topic which enthralled me is the explanation of the Yiddish language.

Hanah was the head of the Livestock Brigade in a commune, a huge job. She married Nehemyah who loved her as deeply as she loved him. The reader is taken through slice-of-life stories, sometimes poignant, sometimes witty. I admire Hanah's work ethic and thriftiness. She didn't waste time or money and when Nehemyah went to the front, she and her children did the very best with what they had. Hanah's economy and enterprise meant delicious meals such as onion cutlets which sound so homey. I grew up on a farm and appreciate the descriptions of pea harvest and binding wheat. Details like this stirred something in my heart. She struck me as someone who went about her daily business without self pity, seeing what was ahead with perseverance. Sadnesses are brutal, though, and changed her and her family's life. Her story reminds me of my grandmother who was matter of fact about her plight.

If you seek something different, this may be for you.