| New
book by Joan M Kop
In a new book published March 17 on Amazon, JOAN M KOP, who grew up in Cottonwood, combines historical fiction and family history with powerful insight and in-depth research in a story about freedom, love and survival. In 1867, August Kopczynski, a young Polish blacksmith and farmer, is faced with poor choices—to fight in the upcoming Franco-Prussian war, or be hanged if he does not. Using a false passport, he escapes to America and survives a harrowing storm aboard a ship where he falls in love with Marie. Together they set out on a faith-filled journey full of Midwest hardships, hoping to realize their dream of prosperity and sons to carry on the family name. “The book was inspired by true events and most are true names,” according to Joan. “I did over twenty years of research before Ancestry.com was invented in 1983. I even took research trips to Poland, Germany, New York City, Chicago and Kansas to make sure I got things right. “I think Cottonwood residents will find the book very interesting. The latter part of the book depicts life in the early days of Cottonwood’s history, including horse and cattle roundups as well as hog stampedes.” Here is what some people had to say about her book: “The Freedom Chaser is an extremely well-written family history displaying vast historical knowledge and natural storytelling skills. The historical period comes to life and at times the characters seem to jump off the pages.” -- Helga Schier, PhD and former editor at Random House. “A well written portrayal of the author’s great-grandfather, who emigrated from Poland after the U.S. Civil War. Anyone interested in the history of Chicago, Kansas and Idaho with the trials and tribulations of immigrants to America will find this a worthwhile read.” – Lyle Wirtanen, Former Director (2000-2010), Historical Museum at St. Gertrude, Cottonwood, Idaho. 
The front cover of Joan M Kop's new book. |
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