From Shore to Shore: Ukrainian Mennonite Poetry in Translation

Join us for an evening book launch and celebration of the new bilingual collection, From Shore to Shore: Ukrainian Mennonite Poetry in Translation (Pandora Press, 2025). With remarks from the translators (Hannah Gardiner and Jakob Stephan), a welcome from the host (Brubacher House), readings from the families of the authors, and comments from the publisher (Pandora Press), this event is sure to spark the imaginations and memories of those who are familiar with the history of the Chortitza and Molotschna colonies, and those who are encountering these poetic expressions for the first time.

We’re grateful for ongoing support from the Mennonite Historical Society of Ontario, including a grant from the J. Winfield Fretz Special Projects Fund, which supported the publication of this book. 

Books will be available to purchase at this event, or purchase the book online at via Amazon.

The ten poems in this chapbook collection were written in the first half of the twentieth century in German by Mennonite men and women from the Chortitza and Molotschna colonies of nowadays Ukraine. These poems offer personal accounts that reflect the historical experiences of many Mennonites during this time. Their poetry speaks of war, oppression, persecution, immigration, and living in the diaspora. Some of the poets recount stories of staying; others, stories of leaving. Taken together, the poems offer readers a vivid account of the everyday life of people: their commitment to their families, to hope, and to faith.

Published by Pandora Press.

Pandora Press books will be available for purchase. Cash, e-transfer, and credit card are acceptable methods of payment, and a limited number of free copies will also be available to those willing to write reviews for academic journals or periodicals.