This beautifully written novel moves relentlessly along to the end that you're hoping won't happen. It is sad, sad, sad, and probably very true to what it was like for immigrants from the Ukraine to Canada in the 1800s and early 1900s. It focuses on one family and their struggles to make a home for themselves in a cruel wilderness. The author breaks up the daunting day-to-day of these people with joyful and sweet family times. But, realistically, these are few and far between. ( )

Shandi Mitchell's first novel was very good! I actually got completely lost in the pages of Under This Unbroken Sky. The character's were so intriguing I sometimes couldn't quite move from one character to another. Harsh nature and even harsher economic times were very trobulesome for the characters. Their perservance and struggle to survive was awsome. Once started, I couldn't put it down and I recommend it to others! ( )

This is a tightly woven story about two immigrant families who attempt to break ground and farm in Canada. Teodor and Anna are siblings, both of their families have fled the horrors of their homeland under Stalin and have landed on the Canadian prairie. It’s the 30’s and like the US, the depression and weather issues of the time take their toll in Canada. Teodor is unable to own land after being accused and arrested of stealing his own grain. His wife Maria, one of the strongest characters in the novel, keeps their homelife intact while they try to rebuild their farm and life. Anna’s ne’er do well husband Stefan returns after an absence, which sets in motion many of the tragic events that propel this story to its’ conclusion. This is no Little House on the Prairie, as harsh conditions torment these families' hearts and minds. I was fascinated by Mitchell's personal note at the end, which details a bit about her own grandfather and how that led to this story. That really pushed it to a four star rating for me. ( )

This book grabbed my attention right from the start. It is one of those books that you cannot put down. It is a tragic story of 2 families who are immigrants in Northern Canada. The author does a great job describing Canada and the harshness the families live through. The ending blew me away! It is a book I will not soon forget! ( )

It took me a while to finish this one because it isn't a happy story. Ukrainian immigrants to Canada in the 1930's had it hard. But it is a story well written with honesty and intensity. It was a story that had me wrapped in a blanket shivering in the snow storm even though it is 90 degrees here in south Alabama. I recommend this book for anyone that is interested in historical fiction. I look forward to reading more from Shandi Mitchell. ( )