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Friday, August 31, 2018

11- Book Review: "Prodigal Daughter: A Journey to Byzantium" by Myrna Kostash


Prodigal Daughter: A Journey to Byzantium

By Myrna Kostash

Review by Cheryl Purdey
January 9, 2011

With the simple but provocative declaration, "I'm Greek," Myrna Kostash embarks on a unique journey. It was something she said as a Grade 4 student growing up in Edmonton when she was ashamed and confused about her Ukrainian background.

As an adult, she is still fascinated with the Greek or Byzantine origins of her heritage, and her curiosity motivates this book. Part spiritual quest, part scholarly inquiry, part travel memoir, Prodigal Daughter is as richly layered as the civilization she explores. A self-described secular humanist, Kostash nevertheless has a deep interest in the Orthodox Church, and the result is an intellectually vigorous study.