Borders, Bombs, and ... Two Right Shoes

Main Themes and Topics

Borders, Bombs, and ... Two Right Shoes by Larissa Onyshkevych delves deeply into the harrowing and resilient experiences of a Ukrainian child refugee during World War II. The memoir vividly captures the cruelty and survivalist instincts that defined the WWII era through the eyes of those who lived it. Key themes include the brutality of war, the perseverance of the human spirit, and the intricate web of cultural and historical factors influencing Ukrainian experiences during this tumultuous time. The narrative intertwines personal and historical timelines to provide a comprehensive view that enriches the reader’s understanding of global conflict and personal trials.

Writing Style and Tone

Larissa Onyshkevych employs a narrative style that is both personal and reflective, carefully balancing the subjectivity of her experiences with the historical objectivity required to contextualize them. Her tone is earnest and poignant, inviting readers into the intimate layers of her childhood memories while also conveying the gravity of the situations she faced. The inclusion of maps, timelines, and historical photographs augments the narrative, bridging the gap between individual experiences and broader historical events.

Brief Summary

In her memoir, Larissa Onyshkevych recounts her life as a child from ages 4 to 11, navigating the fear and uncertainty wrought by World War II. Beginning with the 1939 invasion of Western Ukraine, courtesy of communist/Russian forces, the book chronicles a series of tragic and fearsome events, including the massacre of Ukrainian political prisoners, Nazi occupation, and the family's eventual flight from Soviet threats. Throughout these harrowing events, the author and her family exhibit profound acts of courage, aiding Jewish friends and strangers, and seeking safety across a Europe tearing itself apart. Ultimately, her family finds refuge in Displaced Persons camps, representing hope and a new beginning amidst destruction.