The story of a girl adopted by a prosperous American couple in the 1950s questions the value of the American dream and had my heart breaking for children today who are separated from their parents on purpose or bad policy at our country’s borders.
Sousanna: The Lost Daughter is a heart-wrenching and deeply personal novel based on true events that recounts the experiences of a young girl taken from her family in post-World War II Greece and adopted by an American couple. Written by Sousanna Stratman, this book offers a unique perspective on the trauma of forced separation and the challenges of assimilating into a new culture.
At its core, Sousanna: The Lost Daughter is a story of resilience, survival and hope. Stratman writes with honesty and vulnerability about the devastating impact of losing her family and being thrust into a new life in America. Through her reflections on her journey as a child, readers are given a window into the ways in which trauma can shape a person’s sense of self and belonging.
What sets this book apart is its historical importance. Stratman’s story takes place during a period of significant political upheaval in Greece, as the country struggled to rebuild in the aftermath of World War II. Moreover, Sousanna highlights the broader issue of intentional or unintentional parental separation and the ethical questions it raises.
Through her semi-biographical experiences, readers are given a glimpse into the complexities of this period and the ways in which war and its aftermath impacts individual lives. Stratmann masterfully creates fully developed characters in her biological and adoptive family, which as a memoirist myself, I know takes a lot of courage.
I had the honor of meeting the author when she joined our book club for the discussion of the book. She was authentic, kind and full of hope, exactly what a fan would want from an author and, honestly, a friend, which is how I felt upon finishing her book.
Through her story, Stratman sheds light on a period of history that is often overlooked. Sousanna is a must-read for anyone interested in history, adoption, or the enduring impact of trauma on individual lives.
Monica Lee 