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Magda, Standing
When her father pulls her out of high school to care for her invalid mother and little brother, sixteen-year-old Magda is devastated—but the greater challenge is saving her family in the face of a war and pandemic.
In 1916, the world is at war, even if America has not yet joined the effort. But for Magda, the growing hostility her German immigrant family faces hits close to home. Despite her domestic obligations, Magda persists with her education, determined to find an independent role for herself. Faced with the mounting crises of the war and the Spanish flu, Magda seeks the knowledge and strength to try to protect those she loves most.
Standing up to a war and pandemic, traditions and expectations, Magda embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience that leads her back to embracing her family and caring for a wider community.
In 1916, the world is at war, even if America has not yet joined the effort. But for Magda, the growing hostility her German immigrant family faces hits close to home. Despite her domestic obligations, Magda persists with her education, determined to find an independent role for herself. Faced with the mounting crises of the war and the Spanish flu, Magda seeks the knowledge and strength to try to protect those she loves most.
Standing up to a war and pandemic, traditions and expectations, Magda embarks on a journey of self-discovery and resilience that leads her back to embracing her family and caring for a wider community.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
382 pages, Paperback
Published June 9, 2023
5 people are currently reading
40 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
July 13, 2023
Hard to believe this was the author’s debut novel! Excellent historical fiction!
Young Magda has ambitions for herself, dreams of finishing high school and going to college. For women in the early 1900’s, these goals were lofty, and frowned upon by many. It will be especially difficult for Magda to get ahead in her life; her mother is severely depressed and barely functions, and there is a younger brother to care for. As the world moves into fighting WW1, Magda’s life changes drastically, in ways she never imagined…
Young Magda has ambitions for herself, dreams of finishing high school and going to college. For women in the early 1900’s, these goals were lofty, and frowned upon by many. It will be especially difficult for Magda to get ahead in her life; her mother is severely depressed and barely functions, and there is a younger brother to care for. As the world moves into fighting WW1, Magda’s life changes drastically, in ways she never imagined…
March 19, 2024
Magda, Standing written by the author Christine Fallert Kessides is a Teen & Young Adult Military Historical fiction novel. The story is set in the year 1916 at the time of World War 1.
The main character of the story is a sixteen-year-old Magdalena Augustin who lives in Pittsburgh. Magda had dreams of going to college but because of her mother's ill-health, he asked her to drop out of high school. Magda's aunt Minnie and Tilly are an inspiration in her life. Both of them took certification courses at night and worked their way to teaching in public schools.
Magda would watch Richy, keep the house tidy, and prepare dinner so that her mother could rest. Her aunts would tutor her in the essential subjects so she can earn her diploma. The story became more interesting when she volunteered as an assistant nurse with the Red Cross.
The writing style of the author is fantastic. The language used in the book is lucid. The story is told from the third person pov. Magda's determination towards education and that too in 1916 is something I really loved. Magda's character is an inspiration. I am glad to get my hands on this well written book.
The main character of the story is a sixteen-year-old Magdalena Augustin who lives in Pittsburgh. Magda had dreams of going to college but because of her mother's ill-health, he asked her to drop out of high school. Magda's aunt Minnie and Tilly are an inspiration in her life. Both of them took certification courses at night and worked their way to teaching in public schools.
Magda would watch Richy, keep the house tidy, and prepare dinner so that her mother could rest. Her aunts would tutor her in the essential subjects so she can earn her diploma. The story became more interesting when she volunteered as an assistant nurse with the Red Cross.
The writing style of the author is fantastic. The language used in the book is lucid. The story is told from the third person pov. Magda's determination towards education and that too in 1916 is something I really loved. Magda's character is an inspiration. I am glad to get my hands on this well written book.
October 22, 2023
"Magda, Standing" by Christine Fallert Kessides is a compelling historical novel that immerses readers in the challenges and triumphs of its protagonist, Magda, during the tumultuous backdrop of World War I and the Spanish flu pandemic.
Set in 1916, the novel presents a vivid portrayal of a world at war, where anti-German sentiment is on the rise in America. Magda, a determined sixteen-year-old, is abruptly pulled out of high school to care for her invalid mother and younger brother. Despite her domestic responsibilities, Magda refuses to abandon her dreams of education and independence. She is a character who embodies resilience, strength, and a fierce commitment to protecting her family.
One of the book's notable strengths is its well-crafted characters, who feel authentic and true to the time period. Magda's journey of self-discovery and her unwavering determination to pursue her education are inspiring and relatable. The support she receives from her aunts adds depth to her character and highlights the importance of family bonds.
Christine Fallert Kessides skillfully weaves historical events, such as the Spanish flu pandemic and the challenges faced by German immigrants during World War I, into the narrative. These elements provide a rich and immersive backdrop to the story, making the time period come alive for readers.
The novel's prose is well-written, and the author's storytelling is engaging. The reader can feel Magda's struggles, hopes, and dreams as she confronts the adversities of her time.
While the novel offers a compelling story, one aspect that might enhance the reading experience is a character chart or family tree, given the large cast of characters. This could help readers keep track of the relationships and connections between the characters more easily.
In summary, "Magda, Standing" is an impressive debut novel that successfully transports readers to a bygone era marked by war and disease. Magda's journey of self-discovery, resilience, and determination is both inspirational and engaging. This book will appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong, well-developed characters and a richly detailed historical backdrop.
4.6 rounded up to 5/5
Set in 1916, the novel presents a vivid portrayal of a world at war, where anti-German sentiment is on the rise in America. Magda, a determined sixteen-year-old, is abruptly pulled out of high school to care for her invalid mother and younger brother. Despite her domestic responsibilities, Magda refuses to abandon her dreams of education and independence. She is a character who embodies resilience, strength, and a fierce commitment to protecting her family.
One of the book's notable strengths is its well-crafted characters, who feel authentic and true to the time period. Magda's journey of self-discovery and her unwavering determination to pursue her education are inspiring and relatable. The support she receives from her aunts adds depth to her character and highlights the importance of family bonds.
Christine Fallert Kessides skillfully weaves historical events, such as the Spanish flu pandemic and the challenges faced by German immigrants during World War I, into the narrative. These elements provide a rich and immersive backdrop to the story, making the time period come alive for readers.
The novel's prose is well-written, and the author's storytelling is engaging. The reader can feel Magda's struggles, hopes, and dreams as she confronts the adversities of her time.
While the novel offers a compelling story, one aspect that might enhance the reading experience is a character chart or family tree, given the large cast of characters. This could help readers keep track of the relationships and connections between the characters more easily.
In summary, "Magda, Standing" is an impressive debut novel that successfully transports readers to a bygone era marked by war and disease. Magda's journey of self-discovery, resilience, and determination is both inspirational and engaging. This book will appeal to readers who enjoy historical fiction with strong, well-developed characters and a richly detailed historical backdrop.
4.6 rounded up to 5/5
July 8, 2023
Magda Standing
The daughter German immigrants, high school sophomore Magda must quit school to help her family. Magda’s dreams of going to college and becoming a doctor are dashed.
Set during World War I, Magda Standing tells the story of a determined and resourceful young woman who finds a way to be tutored and complete high school on her own while caring for her depressed mother and her rambunctious three-year-old brother. When family responsibilities and schoolwork become too difficult to manage, Magda uses her allowance to get household help and barters for childcare so she can continue her studies. When America enters the war, Magda volunteers for the Red Cross and becomes a nurse’s aide so she can help wounded soldiers.
Readers familiar with the World War I Era and the 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic will see that Kessides hits all the noteworthy beats: politics, the war, the pandemic, and social attitudes of the day. Part of the joy of well-researched fiction is finding the historic Easter eggs incorporated into the story. The author integrates these pertinent details in a natural and engaging way.
Kessides presents the narrative from a German American point of view. Magda’s parents immigrated to Pittsburgh to escape war and social unrest in late 1800’s Germany. The author also shows the reader the unfair and sometimes violent prejudice against Germans in the United States during the period.
Readers who like young adult historical fiction, books with solid families, and novels with resilient heroines will love Magda Standing.
This review is based on an advanced reader copy requested by the reviewer.
The daughter German immigrants, high school sophomore Magda must quit school to help her family. Magda’s dreams of going to college and becoming a doctor are dashed.
Set during World War I, Magda Standing tells the story of a determined and resourceful young woman who finds a way to be tutored and complete high school on her own while caring for her depressed mother and her rambunctious three-year-old brother. When family responsibilities and schoolwork become too difficult to manage, Magda uses her allowance to get household help and barters for childcare so she can continue her studies. When America enters the war, Magda volunteers for the Red Cross and becomes a nurse’s aide so she can help wounded soldiers.
Readers familiar with the World War I Era and the 1918 Spanish influenza pandemic will see that Kessides hits all the noteworthy beats: politics, the war, the pandemic, and social attitudes of the day. Part of the joy of well-researched fiction is finding the historic Easter eggs incorporated into the story. The author integrates these pertinent details in a natural and engaging way.
Kessides presents the narrative from a German American point of view. Magda’s parents immigrated to Pittsburgh to escape war and social unrest in late 1800’s Germany. The author also shows the reader the unfair and sometimes violent prejudice against Germans in the United States during the period.
Readers who like young adult historical fiction, books with solid families, and novels with resilient heroines will love Magda Standing.
This review is based on an advanced reader copy requested by the reviewer.
June 16, 2023
Courage comes in many different forms.
Some of the most memorable scenes were the ones that explored Magda’s personality and character development over the years. She could be quite stubborn at times, but there was always something admirable to be found in her optimistic attitude and determination to make a better life for herself. It was rewarding to see how she matured as she grew older and took note of the many experiences she had, from lighthearted moments with her talkative baby brother to heartbreaking ones that I’ll leave for other readers to discover for themselves.
This book included over sixty different characters. I struggled to keep up with who everyone was and how they were connected to each other even though I was deeply invested in what might happen to Magda and her family next. It would have been helpful to have a list of characters before the first chapter so I could refer to it when I needed a refresher on whether any two characters were relatives, friends, lovers, neighbours, or acquaintances. As much as I otherwise yearned to give this a full five-star rating, this was a stumbling block to do that.
Ms. Fallert Kessides had a smooth and beautiful writing style that made it hard for me to step away from the storyline. She knew exactly when to transition from describing characters to pushing the plot forward, and she kept me up late reading more than one night. Based on what a positive first experience I had with her work, I’m definitely going to be keeping an eye out for her future projects.
Magda, Standing was an engrossing read.
Some of the most memorable scenes were the ones that explored Magda’s personality and character development over the years. She could be quite stubborn at times, but there was always something admirable to be found in her optimistic attitude and determination to make a better life for herself. It was rewarding to see how she matured as she grew older and took note of the many experiences she had, from lighthearted moments with her talkative baby brother to heartbreaking ones that I’ll leave for other readers to discover for themselves.
This book included over sixty different characters. I struggled to keep up with who everyone was and how they were connected to each other even though I was deeply invested in what might happen to Magda and her family next. It would have been helpful to have a list of characters before the first chapter so I could refer to it when I needed a refresher on whether any two characters were relatives, friends, lovers, neighbours, or acquaintances. As much as I otherwise yearned to give this a full five-star rating, this was a stumbling block to do that.
Ms. Fallert Kessides had a smooth and beautiful writing style that made it hard for me to step away from the storyline. She knew exactly when to transition from describing characters to pushing the plot forward, and she kept me up late reading more than one night. Based on what a positive first experience I had with her work, I’m definitely going to be keeping an eye out for her future projects.
Magda, Standing was an engrossing read.
July 21, 2025
Magda, in this book is challenged by everything we are afraid of as we stand in our family circles - death, separation and fear of abandonment. Because the time period is WWI, starting at 1916 when she is a well-kept teen facing a well-kept future and life, she is unknowingly standing on the edge of a perilous cliff.
Still, this is a story inspired by the author's actual family, and as most families go forward regardless, this one does as well . . .they take their hits, rally and move forward however they can. . .standing, facing all. At the book's end, the reader receives the title's gift. It's the answer one wants for every ancestor's end and story. . .?how'd it go? how was she?
Not a difficult book - despite the potentially devastating topics. Because of their gentle treatment, I would easily give this read to my pre-teen and early teens for reading. And for that very same reason, more mature readers may be eager for reads which don't regard these topics so gingerly.
*A sincere thank you to Christine Kessides, Bold Story Press | IBPA, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #MagdaStanding #NetGalley 25|52:3d
Still, this is a story inspired by the author's actual family, and as most families go forward regardless, this one does as well . . .they take their hits, rally and move forward however they can. . .standing, facing all. At the book's end, the reader receives the title's gift. It's the answer one wants for every ancestor's end and story. . .?how'd it go? how was she?
Not a difficult book - despite the potentially devastating topics. Because of their gentle treatment, I would easily give this read to my pre-teen and early teens for reading. And for that very same reason, more mature readers may be eager for reads which don't regard these topics so gingerly.
*A sincere thank you to Christine Kessides, Bold Story Press | IBPA, and NetGalley for an ARC to read and review independently.* #MagdaStanding #NetGalley 25|52:3d
June 9, 2023
An impressive and rich debut novel: A compelling read and immersion into a lesser explored time in American history--the lead-up to WWI as well as the tragic impacts of that war and the 1918-19 Influenza. Beautifully detailed in day to day life, an engaging and endearing cast of characters, plus a vivid window into the challenges facing German-Americans as we became immersed in WWI. Loved the many quietly feminist women and role models in Magda's life and her own journey of self-discovery. At a time women were so constrained by society's expectations and definitions, Magda joins the ranks of those who pushed against them. A fascinating and inspiring narrative about a young woman who finds her own strength and path during an era that irrevocably upended and changed the world.
September 22, 2023
I found the book one of the best reads I have had in years. It is a beautifully written historical novel that weaves so many different generations of women in a web around its main character, Magda. The women are of varied backgrounds: economic, social, age, education, race and mental capacities. Each character adds a different dimension to Magda’s life. The fact that she is a teenager, to me, is immaterial to what audiences the novel should be marketed to. Her relationships with all the characters in the book are a two way street to the learning, support, comfort and challenges that they all face during this difficult time in history. I truly hope to see this novel get the accolades it deserves.
Sandra Majors
Sandra Majors
June 28, 2023
Magda Standing
The year is 1916. The place is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Sixteen-year-old Magda, daughter of German immigrants, yearns to finish high school but she is needed at home to take care of her baby brother. She faces her mother’s illness and the bias against people of German ancestry with the rest of her family. These problems are overshadowed by the war in Europe, later known as World War I, and the flu epidemic that took the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans.
As one of the Great Generation, Magda does what needs to be done, not thinking how remarkable it will appear to later generations.
The year is 1916. The place is Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Sixteen-year-old Magda, daughter of German immigrants, yearns to finish high school but she is needed at home to take care of her baby brother. She faces her mother’s illness and the bias against people of German ancestry with the rest of her family. These problems are overshadowed by the war in Europe, later known as World War I, and the flu epidemic that took the lives of hundreds of thousands of Americans.
As one of the Great Generation, Magda does what needs to be done, not thinking how remarkable it will appear to later generations.
January 18, 2024
A compelling coming-of-age story about a young woman who is determined to make her own way in a world that is not always kind to her dreams, but ultimately rewards her abilities and courage. She encounters many obstacles along the way, but also finds allies, friendship and love. The novel paints a vivid picture of America during World War I, the prejudice German-Americans faced, and the terrible toll of the influenza pandemic. It also vibrantly describes Pittsburgh during its steel-city heyday – I could almost taste the gritty pollution coughed up by its mills. A YA novel that readers of all ages will enjoy.
June 10, 2023
The story is multi-faceted with history woven in and out of the main plot of a young woman following in the footsteps of relatives to make her own life choices. Family is so important in this story and the theme of a vocation in service is highlighted, all set within the era of the Great War. Fantastic story-telling, a book I waited all day long to read once I could rest. I sure hope there will be others, maybe even a sequel by the author.
June 28, 2023
This book is so inspiring. It s about not giving up on ourselves,our goals and our humanitywhen life shows the tough side. The writer describes dark parts of the history through Magda's life without making the readers miserable and teaches us what can we all achieve with solidarity,self balance and focus. It s a book for men and women but I will definitely insist on my daughter reading it.
July 18, 2023
"Magda Standing" by Christine Fallert Kessides, is historical fiction at its best. Taking place during World War 1, and set in Pennsylvania, made it different from most of the other "war" books. The author made her characters come alive. Their story was well-told, fast paced and emotionally charged. I highly recommend this book to lovers of the genre.
March 31, 2025
Wonderful historical fiction novel, intended for young adult readers, but it great for adults as well. Great descriptions of Pittsburg (and Baltimore and New York) in the World War I era. Inspirational novel of a young girl who fights the odds of her situation to improve her life and the others around her.
April 22, 2025
An excellent young adult novel written by a local author about a German immigrant family living in Pittsburgh starting around 1916. The portrayal of the family life, the city life, dealing life opportunities and trials, the impact of WWI and the Spanish Flu provided so many insights within the structure of this story! a good read!
June 24, 2024
Kessides brings the struggle of German American identity during the First World War to life in this novel. Teenage Magda, coming off the high of being one of the best students in her class, must leave school to care for her mother and youngest brother, yet she continues to pursue her studies with the help of her maternal aunts. Trying to not lose her sense of self, Magda builds new relationships with locals in the community, such as Elise and her son, and her brother Fred’s friend Conrad, to replace her school-based friendships. Kessides brings the reader into the tensions of World War I, from American inaction to the nation’s entry into the war in 1917, through Magda’s large family -- the enlistment of her brother and brothers-in-law and her own calling to join the local Red Cross. Kessides’ characters are the heart of the story, and the framing of the narrative through Magda’s perspective and her interactions with her large family and friends allows the reader to conceptualize the larger historical context of World War I. Kessides has created a fascinating, personal, and immersive historical fiction novel following a strong, clever, and loyal female lead on her own personal journey for education and knowledge.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bold Story Press, Independent Book Publishers Association, and Members' Titles for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, Bold Story Press, Independent Book Publishers Association, and Members' Titles for the advance copy.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews