From Silt and Ashes

The author of Please Say Kaddish for Me continues the story of a Jewish woman’s journey from Czarist Russia to the heartland of America.

Since losing her family in a pogrom, Havah Gitterman has already seen the worst of humanity. But at last, she and her husband Arel have made it to Kansas City, thanks to Havah’s benefactor. Though haunted by friends and family they have lost—and those left behind—the couple hopes to make a new beginning, especially since Havah is pregnant.

But some traditions are hard to change. Havah studies the Torah in Hebrew and considers teaching it to other girls, much to the chagrin of those still clinging to the old ways. And when Havah gives birth to a daughter who is blind, Arel’s dismay shocks Havah, threatening their marriage.

Havah will learn that even in the New World, prejudice and hate thrive in the shadows, and some wounds will never heal. But with perseverance and faith, Havah will find her way and set an example for her daughter, her community, and generations to come . . .

“Heart-wrenching, incisive and elegantly written, From Silt and Ashes is ultimately a compelling and riveting look into the heart of humanity—at is worst and its best.” —Lisa Regan, author of Local Girl Missing

“Introduces the reader to unique and intensely-drawn characters who bring the story of Jewish persecution in Czarist Russia into stark realization.” —Ginny Fite, author of Possession and Cromwell’s Folly

“An engrossing family saga.” —Jack Martin, author of Brother, Can You Spare a Dime? and Hail, Columbia!