Olio Hercules is a Ukrainian woman who authors cookbooks with recipes from her homeland while living in London. When the Russians attacked Ukraine in February of 2022, she felt it was important to learn more about her family and the country she left. Part of the tradition of any country is the food one brings to the table, so while Hercules describes four generations of family members, she also writes of the country’s native dishes as well as Ukraine’s tumultuous history.

Olia Hercules is an excellent writer. Her descriptions are so vivid. I knew very little about Ukraine and it’s difficulties, not just recently, and was glad to learn what its people have endured for almost a hundred years. For readers who have a hard time with foreign names Strong Roots has lots!