Do you enjoy a book that makes you stop & think?
Today I am enjoying reading Lara’s memoir, "Camel from Kyzylkum", which has made me do this. In the book, Lara shares her life story with us. Her story shows us that the journey of a refugee, in this case from Russia to the USA, doesn’t end when they arrive in a new country.
Whilst sharing her story Lara writes:
“Kindness is helping the world, one person at a time”
In the often crazy world we live in, this quote reminds me that all acts of kindness no matter how large or small matter.
The book has many other messages which may resonate with you such as the power of hope and determination.
Thank you @authorlarag for sharing your inspirational story with us.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C57UJZRrQOA/

"Camel from Kyzylkum" stands out as a compelling memoir by Lara Gelya, chronicling her immigration journey from the Soviet Union to America. This narrative isn't just about traversing geographical landscapes—from Ukraine to the deserts of Uzbekistan and beyond—but also navigating the emotional and spiritual challenges of seeking freedom and a better life.

Lara's story, enriched by themes of hope, struggle, family, and loss, is a vivid testament to the human spirit's resilience. Her journey of self-determination and the search for personal truth captivates readers, making the memoir an inspiration. The authenticity and strength of Lara, described by her husband as a "strong and independent woman," add depth to her experiences, resonating with anyone who values freedom and the pursuit of happiness.

Highly recommended for its inspiring narrative and profound insights into the human quest for a better life, Lara Gelya's memoir is a remarkable account of courage, hope, and the relentless pursuit of one's dreams.

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6275556287

Wow, wow, wow!! What an incredible life you have lived thus far. Lara, I just finished reading your book and I feel like I’ve known you for years. You have a beautiful way with words and expressing your thoughts and emotions. I’d love to have you autograph my copy and I’m going to look you up on YouTube. I will definitely write a review for you and tell many people to read your book.

— NG.

The story of Lara leaving her position in the gold and uranium mines of Kyzylkum in the Soviet Union to come to America is an inspiring story of strength and perseverance. Utilizing every opportunity to work and educate herself, Lara Gelya became an American citizen and had a successful career in IT. Her story is an easy read should be a model for immigrants who are arriving with much more help than she had. It is the story of one of the millions of immigrants who have realized their dream in America, but is a reminder that this is a land of opportunity.

— WK.

What an honest and captivating account of a daring escape from Soviet tyranny to freedom! From the moment I opened this book, it was a page-turner and kept me on the edge of my seat. Even knowing that everything turned out well (since it's the author herself who is telling the story in the first-person narrative), you still can't help rooting for Lara every step of the way on her journey from the bleak and glum reality of the Soviet Union to the freedom in the US which came with its own set of challenges and adventures... I don't want to give anything away - read it for yourselves!

— YR.

The collapse of the Soviet Union is one of the most significant events of the twentieth century. Camel from Kyzylkum is the story of the author, Lara Gelya, an immigrant from the Soviet Union who left her motherland in the late ‘80s and arrived in the United States in search of a better life. However, before she could carve out a life for herself in America, Gelya had to navigate some overwhelming obstacles along the way. Born in Vinnytsia, Ukraine, she completed her studies at the Geological College in Kyiv. From 1968 to 1988, Gelya spent twenty years as a geophysicist working in the Kyzylkum Desert in Uzbekistan to explore and excavate uranium and gold. After a failed marriage, escalating political turmoil forced her to undertake a dangerous journey through multiple countries before her eventual arrival in the land of dreams.

Camel from Kyzylkum is an inspiring real-life story of a woman's pursuit of a better life against all odds. Lara Gelya provides a vivid account of her experiences as a Soviet Union immigrant who managed to overcome extraordinary challenges and struggles to finally find her dream home. With an unflinching narrative, Gelya lays bare her life story. Her tale showcases the resilient spirit of the human soul and proves that one should never give up hope, even in adversity. Overall, I found Camel from Kyzylkum a thoroughly riveting read and a memoir that I will highly recommend to everyone.

Reviewed by Pikasho Deka for Readers' Favorite (https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/camel-from-kyzylkum)

“What a fascinating story. You have had an incredible life's journey. I found your book truly inspiring. I am going to pass it on to our Granddaughter to read. I hope there is nothing but happy memories to add to your story for both you and Sparky.”

— JC.

“Few memoirs can keep a reader’s attention like Camel from Kyzylkum. The author brings her book to life with her storytelling and shares her experiences in a way that allows the reader to be present with her as she leaves Ukraine, travels through Austria and Italy, and eventually immigrates to the United States. The courage and spirit with which she dealt with deeply personal choices frames her story in a way that leaves the reader in awe. Personal photos throughout the book add to her journey.”

—Rick Lite ( https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/camel-from-kyzylkum-lara-gelya/1141357567?ean=9781737787808 )

“A brave and painfully honest depiction of Lara’s life.
Lara Gelya has written her memoir with great details and accuracy of historical events in both the former Soviet Union and here in the USA, necessitating intense research and documentation. Overall, the book is impressive in many aspects & highly recommended… I could not put it down from start to finish. The photos in the book are truly prize-winning…”

— BM.

“Camel from Kyzylkum is an inspiring real-life story of a woman's pursuit of a better life against all odds. Lara Gelya provides a vivid account of her experiences as a Soviet Union immigrant who managed to overcome extraordinary challenges and struggles to finally find her dream home. With an unflinching narrative, Gelya lays bare her life story. Her tale showcases the resilient spirit of the human soul and proves that one should never give up hope, even in adversity. Overall, I found Camel from Kyzylkum a thoroughly riveting read and a memoir that I will highly recommend to everyone.”

— Pikasho Deka (https://readersfavorite.com/book-review/camel-from-kyzylkum)

“Lately, it's been hard for me to find books that I binge straight through from beginning to end. Camel from Kyzylkum by Lara Gelya was a rare find that I couldn't put down.

Lara Gelya is from Ukraine, and she has had such an incredible life. This book follows her story through the good and bad - immigration, family struggles, love, loss, and finding her way to a better life. I found Lara's retelling of her life, from traveling through the Kyzylkum Desert of Uzbekistan, to finding steady employment, having a family, and all the way through retirement to be so sweet. It's an easy read, almost as if Lara is out right telling her life story over a coffee. Her life is incredible and unbelievable. Despite some very difficult parts of her life, she shows optimism and pride for who she is. The obstacles life threw at her could be difficult, but she made it through even the toughest ones.

This is truly a story of the power of women. Lara's journey is such an incredible one, and her shine is evident. I truly think this is a must read book to open your eyes to a new world that might be outside of your own. She deeply touched my heart and soul, and for that I applaud Lara. What an incredible story teller. Five out of five stars.”

— Briar's Reviews (https://briarsreviews.wordpress.com/2023/01/04/book-review-camel-from-kyzylkum-by-lara-gelya/ )

“In this memoir, the author narrates her life journey as an immigrant, a mother, a grandmother, and an independent woman from Ukraine to the Kyzylkum Desert of Uzbekistan (then a part of the Soviet Union), through Austria and Italy, all the way to the United States. Standing as a testament to her indomitable spirit and sheer willpower, the book tells us an inspiring tale of grit and endurance in the face of unforgettable hardships. Using a simple and engaging tone, Lara speaks about her own diverse experiences and leaves the readers spellbound with her quest for a better life.

Written during the pandemic year, this memoir is a genuinely heartwarming account of the various challenges the author faced and overcame during her life. Although one can argue about the linearity of the plot structure, a rough chronology is followed throughout the story, most of which flows uninterrupted in the form of flashbacks. This particular characteristic of the narrative makes it seem almost like a diary, recording the various emotional upheavals of the author’s journey rather than the individual events themselves.

Lara describes her personal ordeals with surprising candor. Starting with her process of immigration, her struggle to re-establish herself in a foreign country, and her effort to learn the new language. Readers then learn of her constant fight to bring her daughter from the Soviet Union to join her and the painful break from her family. She was left feeling betrayed and filled with grief. To finally accept reality and reach towards other sources of fulfillment, we accompany her on her travels and witness each phase of her life as they shape the person she has become today.

But unlike memoirs of great people, who always seem to be placed on a pedestal and therefore seem detached from our lives, Lara’s story touches us deeply because we can empathize with her. This is the story of an ordinary person like us. A woman who got uprooted from her birthplace and was forced to leave behind everything she knew as her own to try and build her future in a strange land surrounded by unknown people. Yet, ultimately, what makes it inspiring is that it is a story about never giving up.”

— Literary Titan (https://literarytitan.com/2022/08/25/camel-from-kyzylkum/)

“The author’s story was so moving to read. The balance that was struck between matter-of-fact storytelling and heartfelt experiences was felt throughout this book so clearly. The imagery and tone the author managed to bring to life in the book kept me as a reader hooked to the story being told.”

— AA.

“Lara’s story is a modern day telling of the American dream. Her story parallels the immigrant experience of the turn of the 20th century. This idea that America would offer greater opportunity, safety, and stability that was lacking in one’s homeland. It truly warms the heart, amid so much turmoil, to see that this legacy of America still lives on.”

— HS (https://heidislowinski.com/2022/08/17/book-review-a-new-memoir-by-lara-gelya/)

“A fascinating true story of a journey to America. Lara conveys the resiliency of the human spirit in the face of adversity the likes of which many of us will never experience. In light of what is currently taking place in Ukraine, she gives you insight into what life was like there. She connects her story with many beautiful photographs which draw the reader in. Her story is something we can all draw strength from!”

— L.

“This was a wonderful story of one woman's strength in pursuing her dreams. Throughout this memoir, Lara overcomes hardships and great odds to protect her daughter and create her own American dream. A most interesting story and hard to put down.”

— D.

“From Someone With Inside Knowledge...

In March of 1999, I had been a widower for 3+ years. My wife of 21+ years had died of breast cancer, I had not dated, etc. since then and I decided that for my 50th birthday I would begin looking for another meaningful relationship. In the online synopsis of my situation, among other things, I stated that I was looking for a 'strong and independent' woman. Well, the woman I met was Lara Gelya. Full disclosure, I am her husband and I can attest to the fact that she is indeed a strong and independent woman! Several of our friends and acquaintances who have read 'Camel From Kyzylkum' have conveyed their impressions and overwhelmingly the singular most popular comment was that they 'couldn’t put it down', they found the story of her life and all the trials and tribulations she had to deal with captivating. I can’t imagine how at age 40 I would be able to arrive in another country not speaking their language, not possessing popular modern technical skills, not to mention dealing with an unfamiliar culture! I wholeheartedly recommend this book based on my own knowledge of her story as well as all of the positive comments she has received from those who have read her book.”

— S.

“I started reading your book this morning and other than going to the bathroom and preparing dinner tonight, I have not been able to put it down! Your life has been amazing and very challenging at times. You book is very well written! I hope someday I get to actually meet you! For now I am sending you my love and appreciation for all you have been through!”

— D.

“I just finished your book. What an interesting and challenging life you have had! You have certainly earned a retirement life in Florida.

Thanks for sharing your experiences!”

— T.

“Never in my life have I felt such a great variety of true emotions reading a book! It captured me from the very first lines... With every new chapter I was following you, your childhood, your youth, the events you went through, your happiness and sadness, your dreams and hopes... You made me smile and cry with you, sympathize and worry for you. I could see everything with your eyes, you could convey the atmosphere surrounding you so vividly! As if your reader could have traveled back in time...
Lara, you know what is another reason I am fond of your story? It is about a chance to study History. The chance to learn about those events, processes through your experience. It must be read by those who lived in the USSR and who now live in all its former republics!
This book is a treasure. For everyone who is losing his hope, who doubts if he could go on fighting, who thinks there is no way out and ready to give up...
Please accept endless appreciation and acknowledgment from me, your grateful and loving reader...”

— V.
“'Camel from Kyzylkum' is the memoir of Lara Gelya, a native of Ukraine, now living in the United States. Told in the style of a parent telling her family the story of her life, this book documents the joys and sorrows of Lara as she sought a life of happiness when the world around her was preventing it from happening. This story is worthy of understanding, not only from a historical perspective, but from a very human one. This is the book that is difficult to put down.”

— H.

“Really enjoyed your book! Your journey is inspiring! Your grasp of English is amazing. Your photos are beautiful. I really like the book cover pic and format, especially the gold embossed title.”

— J.

“Hi Lara,
I just finished reading your book and it was fabulous! They once sold Tee- shirts that said “Been there, done that”. If I could find one I’d get it for you! You truly have experienced it all and made it through. Bravo!”

— S.

“Lara, your book is well written and interesting. You included world history along with your personal history, which showed your perspective on your adventures. All your pictures added to your story.”

— D.

“Lara, congratulations on writing an honest and compelling book in Camel from Kyzylkum.

Your writing is clear and understated. Your understated style powerfully enhanced the impact of the positive and negative events in your life that were recounted in the book. I came away with great admiration for your capacity for hard work and your remarkable courage and flexibility in learning a new language, in immigrating to the United States, in making new friends, in initiating major career changes, and in changing your life for the better.

I thought the typography and layout of your book were first-rate, and the photos in the book were reproduced beautifully. And the photos of all the places in Asia that you write about helped me as an American get a better sense of the atmosphere in those faraway places.”

— B.

“I've finished your book. So many stories... some of them are funny, some of them are awfully sad. It's been a long journey to where you are now, dear Lara. I guess, many people can learn from you, from your stories. You are amazingly strong and at the same time, a very kind woman. I'm admiring you. I'm very proud of you, my dear Lara.”

— I.

“The book is really so well done. I know you have so much of your heart and soul into it. And it shows. That's why I couldn't put it down.”

— B.

“I read your book nonstop yesterday, cover to cover. In person and in photos you are always smiling, perky, and enjoying whatever comes your way. You have gone through so many difficult situations but still maintain a' life is good 'attitude.  You have been the driver in your life not just a passenger... Your whole family should be very proud of you.”

— R.

“So glad you took the time, effort and stamina to get this story out.
It will inspire your family, friends and readers to hope and dream and keep going no matter how tough the journey.  Bravo!”

— M.

“You have a strong narrative voice that comes through, something that is difficult for many writers to achieve. That narrative voice gives shape to your protagonist (you) and gives the reader insight into what kind of a person you are. I find myself rooting for the protagonist and feeling the ups and downs as she does.”

— S.