Portrait of an Immigrant: The Odyssey of a Slovak Boy - who Immigrated to America with his Family in 1939

by Steven A. Bachleda

In this memoir, Bachleda makes a personal story a universal one, sharing the most important lessons that are born of hardship and struggle—determination, love, faith, patriotism, and an enduring belief in the power of family. The story of his family’s immigration to America from Czechoslovakia is set against the backdrop of larger historical events—from World War II to the Vietnam War—and considers the price that must be paid to live the American dream. The story begins much earlier, however, when his father Anton is forced to flee to America to avoid being arrested and put into debtor's prison, leaving behind his pregnant wife, Mary, and their five young children. Several months later, Mary gives birth to their sixth child, a boy named Stefan. Now, Stefan gives a firsthand account of the family’s trials and triumphs, struggles and successes, and above all, their love and faith. With Mary and the children struggling to survive in Czechoslovakia, Anton has immigrated to America in the middle of the Great Depression. He lives with an elderly widow and sends Mary very little money, but as the family endures extreme poverty, they maintain their steadfast faith in God, finding solace and the ability to carry on despite their hardships. Eventually, their prayers are answered. When the elderly widow is on her deathbed, she offers to provide the money to allow the rest of Anton’s family to come to America. But despite their hopes for a better life, their struggles do not end—poverty has followed them, and now, coupled with language barriers in the Bronx, Anton descends further into alcoholism and abuse. And soon, World War II comes to the family. Despite feeling hopeless at times, the family never gives up—and now, Stefan looks back on his life and the lives of his family warmly, appreciating the many opportunities that continue to come his way and developing a strong sense of patriotism for the United States—and a belief in the enduring power of the American dream.

178 pages, Paperback

First published November 4, 2013

Reviews

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

So precious to be able to read the history of a part of my family!

When I first found out about the book from a relative living in the US who sought us out (and thank you for that!) I didn't think I'd like it, judging it from its cover. I thought ugh, another "American dream" story... But I decided to read it anyway to find out about my ancestors and my past. And I'm glad I did because it proved my prejudice very wrong. It's a candid, universal, no bullshit and to the point account of an incredible life story. And all the more special at this lonely pandemic time, making me feel connected to family I didn't even know I had a few months ago.

Even though Steven's life was quite extraordinary - *spoilers in the brackets* (from extreme poverty and homelessness in Zdiar where they didn't even brush teeth through emigration during the war thanks to a stranger and living in Bronx where they didn't have to lock their houses at the time because it was so safe to founding his own business & becoming so successful he could afford to donate typesetting services to the White House), it is in many ways a universal and relatable one and one that also shows how the world evolved from a personal perspective over a lifetime.

I laughed, I cried, I felt connected. I loved how Steven showed the value of the "little joys" in life, of family and community. How his mother liked lilac, like me and how he also liked living in the UK. And of course, finding out I might be related to John Paul II :)

Thank you, Steven.

Disclaimer: the author is my late grandma's cousin.