Cirrus@Austlit

'Lucky Lukas / Laimingas Lukas was written to encourage children to persist in striving to attain their goals, whether in a sport or in their studies. Like our first book Laima's Lunch / Laimos Pietūs, it is presented in two languages, English & Lithuanian, for families who want their children to learn Lithuanian. Reading this story with your children will give them an opportunity to discuss their aspirations and to explore the situations raised in the back section. A child's participation in team sports encourages healthy development and socialisation, bringing a family together in the endeavours and rewards all sports can bring.'

'As retired teachers, the authors are well aware of the problem of bullying that children face on a daily basis at their schools. "Laima's Lunch / Laimos Pietūs" has been written for children who may have experienced bullying about their appearance, their food or nationality. It is presented in two languages for those children who would like to learn Lithuanian, and for parents & grandparents who want their children & grandchildren to learn this wonderful language. Reading this story together will also give them a chance to talk informally about the types of bullying that occurs and the importance of having friends. At the back of the book there are sample questions parents can use after reading the story and websites for learning Lithuanian. Cooking brings families together. You will find recipes at the end of the book for Kibinai, Poppy seed cake, Anpan buns and Pączki donuts.'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'After a traumatic break up with her boyfriend in Chicago, Sylvia is persuaded to go on a trip to Lithuania, the land of her ancestors. She doesn't expect to find new friends who take her to some of the most beautiful places in the country. Nor does she expect to fall for an Olympic rower or meet a bossy ghost who's determined to give her history lessons at every opportunity. However, Sylvia has to make an important decision. Should she go back to Chicago or stay in Lithuania?'

Source: Publisher's blurb.

'Kristina's life in the tiny village of Ventuva, northwest Lithuania, seems idyllic until her husband Romas is brutally murdered. Forced to raise three young children on her own, she relies on the ancient gods and her mother Elena for guidance. Trying to retain her country's traditions during two world wars, Kristina battles to overcome poverty and the villagers' suspicions. On the other side of the world, in Australia, Gaila fights her own demons. Then she finds a small leather bound book amongst her mother's possessions. Does it hold the key to a family mystery?' (Publication summary)

'Spanning three generations, A Wolf At Our Door explores the lives of three women suddenly exiled to Siberia in World War II. Enduring starvation, labour camps and brutal Arctic winters of -50º C, a mother and her daughters battled for survival.

Only thirty-seven years later were they able to return to their homeland, Lithuania.

Based on interviews and the memoirs of Jadvyga, Irena and Victoria Kazlauskas, Jura Reilly vividly brings to life the struggles of a forgotten generation of those Lithuanian women who had survived when so many others had perished.'

Source: Back cover