By: Christine Fallert Kessides
ISBN: 978-1-954805-38-5
Bold Story Press, 2023
When her father pulls her out of high school to care for her invalid mother and little brother, sixteen-year-old Magda is devastated—but the greater challenge is saving her family in the midst of a global war and pandemic.
In 1916, the world is at war, even if America has not yet joined the effort. But for Magda, the growing hostility surrounding her German immigrant family in Pittsburgh hits close to home. Despite her domestic obligations, Magda persists with her education, determined to find an independent role for herself. Faced with the mounting crises of the Great War and the Spanish flu, Magda seeks the knowledge and strength to protect those she loves most.
Standing up to a war and pandemic, traditions and expectations, Magda embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience that leads her back to embracing her family and caring for a wider community.
Silver medalist — 2023 Story Circle SARTON's Book Award - Young Adult category
About the Author
Christine Fallert Kessides was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and was always interested that all the ancestors she could identify came from Germany. After reviewing her family genealogy and some of her relatives’ experiences, she was inspired to write Magda’s story. A graduate of Northwestern University and Princeton University, Christine had a career writing policy reports for the World Bank in international development. In retirement she volunteers with nonprofits that support women and families. She lives outside Washington, DC with her husband and enjoys visits with their four children, two grandchildren, and granddogs. Magda, Standing is her first novel.
To learn more about Christine Fallert Kessides and her work, please see www.magda-standing.com
