Book recommendations

In case anyone doesn't know, I read a lot. I say that books are my love language. And I thought I would share a little of that love here now. I'm actually writing this in Kherson, which calls for some Kherson books. I'll say where we are, now that the main event we came here to help with is over. (More on that in an upcoming private newsletter.) 

Recently I've gotten to read several books connected to the time of occupation in Kherson specifically or the beginning stages of the full-scale war in general. I highly recommend them. Two aren't out yet, but will be soon. Save up your money for this first one. It's going to be expensive, but it's worth it. 

Serving God Under Siege: How War Transformed a Ukrainian Community, by Valentyn Syniy 

(Ukr/rus title: The Person Whose Home Was Stolen) 

This is my personal favorite. It's about the community that we've around for many years. We know people and places on almost every page of this book. They evacuated to Ivano-Frankivsk while we stayed under occupation. This book tells the story of that move and how they served God in all of it. It's the view from the other side of the line that we were behind. (If you read want to read it now, before the translation comes out, like I did: link.)  

Finding Home Again, by Sharon Markey 

Another excellent book. Sharon and I have been friends online for years, although we've only met once in person. I've read her book several times now, as she gets it ready for publication. It's a work of art and really shows the emotions that can come with war and displacement. (Not about Kherson, but still close to my heart. Sharon's writing helps me sort my own feelings.) There's not a preorder page, as far as I know, but there's more info here. 

And then a different type of book: 

Walking Past Tombstones, by Timothy Morales 

Don't read this one if you're offended by swearing or typos. (The latter bothers me! But I could actually get past them here.) The author is a great storyteller and really get across a picture of what occupation was like. See if you can find Will in his story. There's a chapter name specifically for my Dad, even though I'm sure that's unintentional. I devoured this book in two days, while listening to Kherson artillery pounding outside as the perfect soundtrack for it. 

And, along with reading, you can do what I don't usually like to do: watch. Please watch Zarina Zabrisky's documentary about Kherson. Also watch this interview to go with it.