Leslie Lacin
Leslie Lacin is a French American historical novelist whose work explores Jewish life, war, memory and survival in both the Soviet Union and postwar France.
Uncovering lost stories — one novel at a time.
Leslie Lacin
I travelled to Russia, Georgia and Azerbaijan over a period of ten years to gather the stories of elderly Holocaust survivors and to experience the places where their lives unfolded. The survivors, witnesses to the tumult of both the 20th and 21st centuries, were gracious, hospitable and courageous enough to revisit the most painful chapters of their lives. They shared memories, medals, stamp albums and letters from long dead fathers. They sang me songs and told me their stories, all while holding my hand and making sure I was well fed. I will never forget them.
You, With Your Waiting
Soviet Union, 1941. Two Jewish children. A breathtaking quest to survive.
Bronya, a violin prodigy, dreams of the Moscow Conservatory. Her younger brother, Avsey, cherishes his secret box of treasures and longs to have friends. But when the Nazis invade and they are torn from their family, the children are forced on a perilous trek across a burning land — hunted, hungry and alone.
The past is not past.
I write historical fiction to tell stories that have never been told, to illuminate the historical with human experience, and to add nuance to the historical narratives we think we know. In a world grown indifferent to the facts of the Shoah, and to history in general, these stories matter more than ever. I want my readers to connect with the dilemmas and aspirations of the generations that came before us and find understanding and compassion for those who paved our way.
Write, now and then.
For readings, festival invitations, or a note about the book — letters are always welcome, and answered when the desk allows.
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