Family Ties: How a Ukrainian Nazi and a living witness link Canada to Ukraine today

Main Themes and Topics

Family Ties: How a Ukrainian Nazi and a living witness link Canada to Ukraine today by Peter McFarlane explores the dark and complex histories that tie Ukraine and Canada together through the lives of two individuals, Mikael Chomiak and Ann Charney. The book delves into themes of historical accountability, antisemitism, and the resultant cultural dynamics that continue to influence contemporary politics. McFarlane intricately weaves together the tales of a Ukrainian Nazi collaborator and a Holocaust survivor, juxtaposing their experiences to provide a lens through which readers can understand the broader historical and modern socio-political fabric of Ukraine and Canada. Through this examination, the book sheds light on Canada's post-war Ukrainian community, addressing how history is remembered, forgotten, or reckoned with, and its implications for present-day Canada-Ukraine relations.

Writing Style and Tone

Peter McFarlane's narrative is both engaging and scholarly, combining meticulous research with a compelling storytelling flair. His writing is detailed yet accessible, making complex historical dynamics understandable to readers who may not be familiar with the intricacies of World War II histories or the current geopolitical situation involving Ukraine. The tone of the book is investigative and reflective, allowing readers to engage critically with the content and encouraging them to question the narratives that have long been accepted or overlooked. McFarlane’s approach balances empathy with a critical eye, providing a narrative that is as thought-provoking as it is heartbreaking.

Criticism

While Family Ties is extensively researched and offers an insightful perspective on the interconnected histories of Canada and Ukraine, some readers might find the exploration of deeply entrenched antisemitism unsettling. The focus on individual stories, while enlightening, may not fully capture the broader societal and systemic changes necessary to address these historical issues. Additionally, the book's critical stance could be viewed as controversial, especially in the context of contemporary political dynamics and the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. This critical viewpoint, however, is precisely what makes the book a significant contribution to discussions about history, memory, and identity.

Brief Summary

The book chronicles two parallel lives: that of Mikael Chomiak, a Ukrainian who collaborated with the Nazi SS during World War II, and Ann Charney, a Jewish survivor who evaded death with her mother by hiding in Ukraine. After the war, both individuals found new beginnings in Canada. Chomiak's story is not widely told or acknowledged, especially in light of his granddaughter Chrystia Freeland's prominent political role in Canada. In contrast, Charney's journey from a hayloft in Ukraine to a successful career in Montreal is layered with resilience and triumph over trauma. Through these stories, McFarlane examines the ways in which historical narratives are constructed and transmitted across generations, highlighting the pressing need to confront uncomfortable truths about the past. The book also ties these histories to contemporary issues, including the war between Ukraine and Russia, providing essential context for current events.