Old Country Surprises

Old Country Surprises is an eloquently written novel by Ken Saik about a young man named Mike Bennek, who finds himself on a path toward learning more about his family history. When Mike accepts his ailing grandfather’s request to visit Ukraine to research his family’s origins, he is accompanied by his siblings and friends as they set out on this fascinating journey and become captivated by the old-world charm of a country his grandfather spoke about in such vivid detail.

Along the way, Mike and his group grow to understand the struggles Ukrainians have endured throughout the centuries and the complicated history that has contributed to their deep-held disdain for the Poles and Russians. Old Country Surprises is a young adult adventure rich in history, discovery, and sentimental value, making it an engaging read for both young and older readers. Ken Saik is a gifted storyteller whose ability to blend history, emotion, and compelling characters makes his writing both meaningful and memorable.