WHAT DOES IT TAKE

What does it take to interview, record, transcribe, organize, write, edit, and design a 400 page book with over 65 full color photographs about your dad’s life growing up as a Croatian during the years following WWII? Well, it takes a lot of work, perseverance, time, optimism, and . . . ice coffee.

But this book is particularly important to me because it is about our family. It documents what would have otherwise been lost for all generations. Since we Croatians living in the US have left, we may never know what it was like for our parents unless we listen and document their stories. Our parents are quickly aging, and times are changing. I realized that if I did not do this now, I would miss this chance forever.

I hope the memoir of my dad’s life can be passed down to my nieces and nephews, and I believe the story will resonate with others, especially second and third generations who grew up in the US. Children of other immigrants will relate because it helps give at least a little insight into the question: “Why did you leave?”

After having consistently worked on it for over two years, the book has now finished its last round of edits. It is going off to be designed. How extraordinarily exciting and breathtaking!