Knyzka Corner book Review: First Star I See Tonight

This edition of Knyzka Corner features Orysia Tracz’s book, First Star I See Tonight: Ukrainian Christmas Traditions. 

Orysia Tracz explores the origins, rituals, and cultural significance of Ukrainian Christmas traditions in her first book, First Star I See Tonight. This book includes a number of articles about Ukrainian Christmas celebrations in Winnipeg and Manitoba since the first immigration to Canada more than 125 years ago. It is the first in-depth English language book on Ukrainian Christmas traditions, and will definitely be of interest to Ukrainian families throughout the world. 

The First Star I See Tonight begins with a discussion about the importance of tradition in Ukrainian life thatwill stir up memories for readers both young and old. Non-Ukrainian readers will recall their own traditions as they discover the historical origins of Ukrainian Christmas traditions. 

The greatest strength of this book is its visual appeal. It is simply a beautiful book! Readers who pick it up will be attracted to the illustrations, photographs and layout. The pictures include historical photographs of Ukrainian Christmas celebrations as well as current celebrations both in Ukraine and in North America. It would be a great gift!

The research and wealth of information provided by Tracz will fascinate both Ukrainian and non-Ukrainian readers. They will discover a culture which is both strong and vibrant. There is an extensive bibliography for further research. 

First Star I See Tonight: Ukrainian Christmas Traditions was first published in the fall of 2015 and would be Orysia’s last book since she passed away on November 10, 2016. The Tracz family has established a bursary in her memory with the Ukrainian Canadian Foundation of Taras Shevchenko. The second printing of the book in 2021 has a new dedication by Orysia’s children, Boyan, Dobryan, and Ruslan. Orysia was a pillar of the Ukrainian community, and her absence is keenly felt. 

First Star I See Tonight: Ukrainian Christmas Traditions is available online at Koota Ooma, McNally Robinson Booksellers, Yevshan, Audrey’s Books and some independent book stores.

– Reviewed by Myra Junyk

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