A Bruised Reed
A Personal History of Ukraine and Ukrainian Immigration to Canada
by Jenny Antonio

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Marek’s personal story is framed within Ukraine’s broader history of foreign domination, war, and cultural suppression. In the aftermath of WWI Marek, along with his wife Matrunka set sail to Canada. They establish a homestead in Alberta with little more than basic tools, at a time when Western Canada was in the throes of development. A Bruised Reed is a personal history of the author’s parents’ lives. It also explores the broader history of Ukrainian people and their immigrant experience, the historical landscape they left behind, and the new world they faced with all its tremendous challenges. The book covers key global events, from imperialism and both world wars to the Great depression and the on going conflict in Ukraine. Exploring the theme of adaptation as it relates to both Marek’s family and the broader Ukrainian community, this work highlights faith, resilience, and the transformative impact of perseverance. A Bruised Reed pays tribute to the enduring spirit and rich culture of Ukrainians, depicting their continued efforts to preserve their ethnic identity and country.

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Jenny Antonio is a first-generation Canadian with Ukrainian heritage. A Bruised Reed began as a story for her family, however, in researching it she learned more about Ukrainian ethnic people and their struggles and decided to greatly increase the book’s scope––an endeavour that took over ten years. Jenny lives with her husband Walter and they have three adult daughters and three grown grandchildren.

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Contributors

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Jenny Antonio