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Out of the Transylvania Night
'I'd grown up in the land of Transylvania, homeland to Dracula, Vlad the Impaler, and, worse, the Communist dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu-who turned Romania into a land of gray-clad zombies who never dared to show their individuality,' says the author, 'and where neighbors became informants, and the Securitate made people disappear. Daylight empowered the regime to encircle us like starved wolves, and so night had always been the time to steal a bit of freedom. As if bred into our Transylvanian blood, we were like vampires who came to life after sundown!'
Dr. Aura Imbarus vividly details Christmas Day 1989, when she, her parents and hundreds of shoppers drew sudden sniper fire as Romania descended into the violence of a revolution that challenged one of the most draconian regimes in the Soviet bloc. Aura recalls a grisly execution that rocked the world and led to five harrowing days of bloody chaos as she and her family struggled to survive. The next day, Communist-controlled television released photos showing that dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife had been assassinated-though many Romanians, the author included, believed the executions had been staged since Ceausescu was known for using stand-ins to pose for him. Nevertheless, Aura tries to convince herself that life post-revolution will be different, but little changes.
On May 7, 1997, with two pieces of luggage and a powerful dream, Aura and her new husband flee to America. Through sacrifice and hard work, the couple acquires a home, cars, and travel-but trying to be American is much more complicated than they expect. More difficulties set the stock market crash takes their savings, house, and cars; thieves steal three centuries' worth of heirloom jewels; and Aura's beloved mother dies.
Aura's marriage crumbles under the stress. Devastated, she asks herself, 'How much of one's life is owed to others?' and 'Is it possible to straddle two cultures and not lose one's identity?' Tested even further by the vagaries of fate, Aura realizes that to resurrect herself, she must reconstruct her life. She becomes involved with the Romanian-American Professionals Network (RAPN), whose mission is to help Romanian
immigrants adjust to American life without sacrificing their heritage. In this work, Aura discovers a startling truth a
Dr. Aura Imbarus vividly details Christmas Day 1989, when she, her parents and hundreds of shoppers drew sudden sniper fire as Romania descended into the violence of a revolution that challenged one of the most draconian regimes in the Soviet bloc. Aura recalls a grisly execution that rocked the world and led to five harrowing days of bloody chaos as she and her family struggled to survive. The next day, Communist-controlled television released photos showing that dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and his wife had been assassinated-though many Romanians, the author included, believed the executions had been staged since Ceausescu was known for using stand-ins to pose for him. Nevertheless, Aura tries to convince herself that life post-revolution will be different, but little changes.
On May 7, 1997, with two pieces of luggage and a powerful dream, Aura and her new husband flee to America. Through sacrifice and hard work, the couple acquires a home, cars, and travel-but trying to be American is much more complicated than they expect. More difficulties set the stock market crash takes their savings, house, and cars; thieves steal three centuries' worth of heirloom jewels; and Aura's beloved mother dies.
Aura's marriage crumbles under the stress. Devastated, she asks herself, 'How much of one's life is owed to others?' and 'Is it possible to straddle two cultures and not lose one's identity?' Tested even further by the vagaries of fate, Aura realizes that to resurrect herself, she must reconstruct her life. She becomes involved with the Romanian-American Professionals Network (RAPN), whose mission is to help Romanian
immigrants adjust to American life without sacrificing their heritage. In this work, Aura discovers a startling truth a
- GenresRomaniaNonfictionMemoir
312 pages, Paperback
First published August 17, 2010
7 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 29, 2010
I don’t read a lot of memoirs, but the title Out of the Transylvania Night intrigued me, and Aura Imbarus’ writing pulled me in straight from the start. Her descriptions create vivid images of an impoverished snow-covered Romania, of childhood, family, the fear and fury of wanting to be just a little bit different, and the horror of knowing not wearing red might have saved a young girl’s life.
Snipers fire down from the rooftops as a world, never safe but surely at least a little predictable, explodes into dangerous uncertainty. Aura wonders if she’ll live to take those exams for university. Her parents wonder if the earth beneath their cellar will safely hide their treasures. And the parallels with fictional Transylvanian fears flow naturally onto the page.
As the family becomes cut off from news of the fighting outside, Aura turns to her grandmother for tales of history. The story gathers strength and depth, as does the rebellion. The pages fly by… I really don’t read a lot of memoirs, but this one has me hooked. Aura’s curiosity becomes mine. I want to know what’s happening, who’s doing the killing, who’s dying and why. The truth is, I already know what happened, at least in part, because I was safe at home watching my TV. But Aura was there, part of the power and ugliness and hope of revolution, and this book brings it to life.
The author has a deft hand with background information, feeding it naturally into the narrative. She has a very natural touch with emotion too, with fledgling love, political cynicism, sorrow, fear, and a curiously accurate dreaming that predicts the future. Death moves the reader almost to tears, and success to happy delight.
Aura eventually escaped Transylvania with her husband to America. Having immigrated here myself, though by a different route, I found the author’s depiction of her experience fascinating: the complications, sacrifice, loss; the hopes and dreams; the lack of a credit record; the trials of learning how to order a meal “to go.” And, of course, the temptations. How much of the Aura who made her own choices will remain, the reader wonders, when the world of America has filled her with its own urgent recommendations?
Aura becomes a teacher in Los Angeles, and more. But by the end of the memoir it’s the grown-up girl of the first pages who teaches such valuable lessons. The reader is left breathless and uplifted by a tale that’s in turn so strange and so very familiar—and so wise. I love this memoir, not just for its depiction of Transylvania, but also for its eye on American life and individual strength, and for its hopefulness.
Snipers fire down from the rooftops as a world, never safe but surely at least a little predictable, explodes into dangerous uncertainty. Aura wonders if she’ll live to take those exams for university. Her parents wonder if the earth beneath their cellar will safely hide their treasures. And the parallels with fictional Transylvanian fears flow naturally onto the page.
As the family becomes cut off from news of the fighting outside, Aura turns to her grandmother for tales of history. The story gathers strength and depth, as does the rebellion. The pages fly by… I really don’t read a lot of memoirs, but this one has me hooked. Aura’s curiosity becomes mine. I want to know what’s happening, who’s doing the killing, who’s dying and why. The truth is, I already know what happened, at least in part, because I was safe at home watching my TV. But Aura was there, part of the power and ugliness and hope of revolution, and this book brings it to life.
The author has a deft hand with background information, feeding it naturally into the narrative. She has a very natural touch with emotion too, with fledgling love, political cynicism, sorrow, fear, and a curiously accurate dreaming that predicts the future. Death moves the reader almost to tears, and success to happy delight.
Aura eventually escaped Transylvania with her husband to America. Having immigrated here myself, though by a different route, I found the author’s depiction of her experience fascinating: the complications, sacrifice, loss; the hopes and dreams; the lack of a credit record; the trials of learning how to order a meal “to go.” And, of course, the temptations. How much of the Aura who made her own choices will remain, the reader wonders, when the world of America has filled her with its own urgent recommendations?
Aura becomes a teacher in Los Angeles, and more. But by the end of the memoir it’s the grown-up girl of the first pages who teaches such valuable lessons. The reader is left breathless and uplifted by a tale that’s in turn so strange and so very familiar—and so wise. I love this memoir, not just for its depiction of Transylvania, but also for its eye on American life and individual strength, and for its hopefulness.
September 22, 2010
To read this novel is to take a ride on an emotional rollercoaster that has many twists and turns. The story chronicles the life and times of Aura and her family as they live in a Communist country. The many hardships they must endure just to get through a “normal” day, is enough to depress anyone. Shopping for just the basic essentials as outlined by the leaders would leave one totally devoid of any hope. The story sets out revealing what Aura’s life is like on a daily basis and then everything kicks into high gear as the 1989 revolution starts up.
The adventure takes us into different directions and chronicles the life of someone that is not willing to let all that life has defeat her. Instead the action leans towards what can be done, not just survive but flourish and enjoy. Sacrifice, reward and atonement are the hallmarks of this novel and the points are brought home with such ease that it makes this difficult story an easy one to take. I for one was taken aback by how much I enjoyed this novel and was very happy to have taken the ride.
Surprisingly I haven’t made any wise cracks through this post. It is a serious novel with a serious message but delivered in such a manner that it is not depressing, and makes the reader think a little, but also reflect on the things and people that surround us. The little and the big things we take for granted on a daily basis that some people just don’t have or have to really fight for just to survive. I for one look at things a little differently having read the novel. Aura Imbarus takes us on a journey, not just to different geographical places, but to places in the heart and the mind. Don’t pass this novel up; the trip is worth the taking.
NEWS FLASH: The official book signing will be at Barnes and Noble, at The Grove, BH, on Oct 23, 2pm.On Sept 28, 4pm, She will be the main speaker at the opening of Redondo Beach Library.
What are you reading today? Check us out and become our friend on Facebook & Linkedin. Go to Goodreads and become our friend there and suggest books for us to read and post on. You can also follow us on Twitter, and the Gelati’s Scoop Facebook Fan Page. Did you know you can shop directly on Amazon by clicking the Gelati’s Store Tab on our blog? Thanks for stopping by today; We will see you tomorrow. Have a great day. http://www.gelatisscoop.blogspot.com
The adventure takes us into different directions and chronicles the life of someone that is not willing to let all that life has defeat her. Instead the action leans towards what can be done, not just survive but flourish and enjoy. Sacrifice, reward and atonement are the hallmarks of this novel and the points are brought home with such ease that it makes this difficult story an easy one to take. I for one was taken aback by how much I enjoyed this novel and was very happy to have taken the ride.
Surprisingly I haven’t made any wise cracks through this post. It is a serious novel with a serious message but delivered in such a manner that it is not depressing, and makes the reader think a little, but also reflect on the things and people that surround us. The little and the big things we take for granted on a daily basis that some people just don’t have or have to really fight for just to survive. I for one look at things a little differently having read the novel. Aura Imbarus takes us on a journey, not just to different geographical places, but to places in the heart and the mind. Don’t pass this novel up; the trip is worth the taking.
NEWS FLASH: The official book signing will be at Barnes and Noble, at The Grove, BH, on Oct 23, 2pm.On Sept 28, 4pm, She will be the main speaker at the opening of Redondo Beach Library.
What are you reading today? Check us out and become our friend on Facebook & Linkedin. Go to Goodreads and become our friend there and suggest books for us to read and post on. You can also follow us on Twitter, and the Gelati’s Scoop Facebook Fan Page. Did you know you can shop directly on Amazon by clicking the Gelati’s Store Tab on our blog? Thanks for stopping by today; We will see you tomorrow. Have a great day. http://www.gelatisscoop.blogspot.com
July 30, 2010
Wow! I just finished this book and can't stop thinking about it. Kept my husband up late sharing Aura's story with him.
One criteria I have for a 5 Star book is that once done reading I continue to think about what I read. Out of the Transylvania Night by Aura Imbarus is definitely a book that I am still thinking about.
Aura's memoir of her life in Romania and subsequent immigration to America is remarkable. I must admit my own knowledge of world events is lacking. A revolution in Romania? In fact give me a blank map and I'd have a hard time correctly identifying just where in the world Romania is. Despite my admitted lack of knowledge on world history and geography this book drew me in and held my interest.
Aura's story of growing up in Communist Romania is a story of hope and the struggle for freedom. This captivating book details the difficulties encountered by those who legally immigrate to America. From trying to obtain a job to learning how to order a meal at McDonalds, Aura's description of her life as an immigrant was eye opening. Through her pursuit of the American dream Aura loses herself and those that she loves but ultimately through her journey rediscovers her roots, her loves and herself.
Out of the Transylvania Night is the story of overcoming trials, achieving goals, following your heart, remaining true to yourself and finding real happiness. Aura Imbarus show us there is more to living the American Dream than owning a nice car.
http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....
One criteria I have for a 5 Star book is that once done reading I continue to think about what I read. Out of the Transylvania Night by Aura Imbarus is definitely a book that I am still thinking about.
Aura's memoir of her life in Romania and subsequent immigration to America is remarkable. I must admit my own knowledge of world events is lacking. A revolution in Romania? In fact give me a blank map and I'd have a hard time correctly identifying just where in the world Romania is. Despite my admitted lack of knowledge on world history and geography this book drew me in and held my interest.
Aura's story of growing up in Communist Romania is a story of hope and the struggle for freedom. This captivating book details the difficulties encountered by those who legally immigrate to America. From trying to obtain a job to learning how to order a meal at McDonalds, Aura's description of her life as an immigrant was eye opening. Through her pursuit of the American dream Aura loses herself and those that she loves but ultimately through her journey rediscovers her roots, her loves and herself.
Out of the Transylvania Night is the story of overcoming trials, achieving goals, following your heart, remaining true to yourself and finding real happiness. Aura Imbarus show us there is more to living the American Dream than owning a nice car.
http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....
August 2, 2010
I have to admit when I saw the title of this book I was thinking vampires, bats and gargoyles. Not a fan of vampires and such, fortunately this book is not about bats in the belfry. Intending to skim through the book, I dutifully began with the first page of chapter one, and before I knew it, I was on page fifty of this remarkable journey through history and life, totally immersed in the story. Having read hundreds of book over my lifetime, I can tell when a book is a hit or miss within the first few pages; this one is a hit. It isn’t often that one gets the opportunity to gain a perspective of life outside of the United States, to find how similar our wants and needs are. Wonderful to vicariously experience what it’s like to stop and turn around when your journey is taking you in the wrong direction; something most of us don't do. Aura Imbarus has penned a work every person can relate to. Clearly well written, intriguing, even action-packed and thought provoking, although I would have liked more punch in the ending, but then, the story isn't finished yet and the journey far from complete. I thoroughly enjoyed the read and highly recommend Transylvania to any reader. E. Joyce Moore, writer, author
December 11, 2010
I thought this book was a very good read. It was hard to put it down. I was shocked to find out what Aura went through in the not so distant past. I think I’ve lived a very sheltered life, not having a clue what was going on in the world around me.
Aura is an amazing woman, a rebel and a free spirit! She has a determination that has gotten her where she is today. It was such an inspiring story to read and to find out what a courageous woman Aura Imbarus is, and an inspiration. From wearing red when she knew the risks.
This captivating book details the difficulties encountered by those who legally immigrate to America. From trying to obtain a job to learning how to order a meal at McDonalds, Aura's description of her life as an immigrant was eye opening. Through her pursuit of the American dream Aura loses herself and those that she loves but ultimately through her journey rediscovers her roots, her loves and herself.
Out of the Transylvania Night is the story of overcoming trials, achieving goals, following your heart, remaining true to yourself and finding real happiness. Aura Imbarus show us there is more to living the American Dream than owning a big house.
Aura is an amazing woman, a rebel and a free spirit! She has a determination that has gotten her where she is today. It was such an inspiring story to read and to find out what a courageous woman Aura Imbarus is, and an inspiration. From wearing red when she knew the risks.
This captivating book details the difficulties encountered by those who legally immigrate to America. From trying to obtain a job to learning how to order a meal at McDonalds, Aura's description of her life as an immigrant was eye opening. Through her pursuit of the American dream Aura loses herself and those that she loves but ultimately through her journey rediscovers her roots, her loves and herself.
Out of the Transylvania Night is the story of overcoming trials, achieving goals, following your heart, remaining true to yourself and finding real happiness. Aura Imbarus show us there is more to living the American Dream than owning a big house.
December 1, 2022
I was not a fan of the title from the starters. It is a mouthful.
“People strode around confidently, no furtive slinking or trudging along with stooped shoulders. What an astonishing difference from what we had been used to all our lives: where our fellow Romanians, inured to the harsh conditions of life under Communism, wore ever-present and deeply carved worry lines on their faces, fearing that someone, anyone, might report you for whatever the reason and punishment was sure to follow.”
The memoir is the story of Aura Imbarus in her rebirth as a Romanian-American (how she arrived in America and found and re-found her roots there).
November 2, 2012
For the life of me I don't get the 5 star reviews and glowing blogs on GR, Amazon and the web concerning this book. Of course I could not find any actual big time reviewers that had published anything on Out of the Transylvania Night, but even so -- FIVE STARS?? I think not. I saw one reviewer call it a Cinderella story. Huh? It's about as close in theme to Cinderella as War and Peace is to Rapunzel.
I bought this book because there is so little written about the horror of the Ceausescu years and their aftermath that is readable, and I saw all of the glowing reviews. So much for believing everything you read. I learned very little about what I really set out to learn.
To be fair, this is an inspirational story. But it is not a particularly unique memoir, as memoirs go. Recent memoirs of the horrors of living through World War II (When God Looked the Other Way or The Ice Road) are far more inspirational and far better written. If you want to see the human spirit at work, read about starving with your family in a Soviet gulag and surviving. That is transcendent.
My big problem with this book is the way that it is written. Again, to be fair, the author is not a native English speaker, but where it the world was her editor? The narrative rocks along between young adult speak full of idioms and the most purple of purple prose. Examples of the former: "he did not come on to me" "he started his spiel" "we played phone tag" "my water works had dried up" "How could I ever level with her now?" "Can I have a word with you guys? (meaning her parents)." I expect that kind of writing from a teenager, not a grown woman. It really got annoying.
Examples of purple prose included: " I beheld the immensity and splendor of the Pacific Ocean" "freezing, ice limned mornings with the sun's rays dazzling the world into crystalline glory." Oh my goodness! In the same book narrated by the same author.
Then sprinkled throughout were words like oideja vu and solipsist, which don't exactly fit into the "coming on to me" YA speak narrative and stood out like gratuitous SAT words. The writing was so in need of editing, that I wanted to get out my Professor's red pen. Passive-voice sentences abounded. Punctuation was nothing like I've ever seen before with semi-colons and hyphens used willy-nilly. Abbreviations were used with no explanations (e.g. GMs of factories instead of general managers). I thought she was talking about General Motors!
What comes through in this book is that the author is a bright, ambitious, hard working immigrant of the kind that the U.S. has build on and who made it great. She is also energetic and charismatic. Sadly, she was ill served by her editors and publisher. If she'd had some competent, mature and thoughtful guidance and critique, she could have had a good memoir here. I would still have been disappointed from the standpoint of someone who wanted to learn more about Romania, but at least the writing might have not been so thoroughly annoying.
I bought this book because there is so little written about the horror of the Ceausescu years and their aftermath that is readable, and I saw all of the glowing reviews. So much for believing everything you read. I learned very little about what I really set out to learn.
To be fair, this is an inspirational story. But it is not a particularly unique memoir, as memoirs go. Recent memoirs of the horrors of living through World War II (When God Looked the Other Way or The Ice Road) are far more inspirational and far better written. If you want to see the human spirit at work, read about starving with your family in a Soviet gulag and surviving. That is transcendent.
My big problem with this book is the way that it is written. Again, to be fair, the author is not a native English speaker, but where it the world was her editor? The narrative rocks along between young adult speak full of idioms and the most purple of purple prose. Examples of the former: "he did not come on to me" "he started his spiel" "we played phone tag" "my water works had dried up" "How could I ever level with her now?" "Can I have a word with you guys? (meaning her parents)." I expect that kind of writing from a teenager, not a grown woman. It really got annoying.
Examples of purple prose included: " I beheld the immensity and splendor of the Pacific Ocean" "freezing, ice limned mornings with the sun's rays dazzling the world into crystalline glory." Oh my goodness! In the same book narrated by the same author.
Then sprinkled throughout were words like oideja vu and solipsist, which don't exactly fit into the "coming on to me" YA speak narrative and stood out like gratuitous SAT words. The writing was so in need of editing, that I wanted to get out my Professor's red pen. Passive-voice sentences abounded. Punctuation was nothing like I've ever seen before with semi-colons and hyphens used willy-nilly. Abbreviations were used with no explanations (e.g. GMs of factories instead of general managers). I thought she was talking about General Motors!
What comes through in this book is that the author is a bright, ambitious, hard working immigrant of the kind that the U.S. has build on and who made it great. She is also energetic and charismatic. Sadly, she was ill served by her editors and publisher. If she'd had some competent, mature and thoughtful guidance and critique, she could have had a good memoir here. I would still have been disappointed from the standpoint of someone who wanted to learn more about Romania, but at least the writing might have not been so thoroughly annoying.
September 23, 2010
Wow, I am a bit nervous here. This is my first actual posting of a novel and I thought I would try to start off with one that really tugged at my heart and made me think really hard about myself and those around me. Out of the Transylvania Night is that novel and it has so many different facets. It is hard to quantify to what genre this novel belongs. It contains history, plenty of action, suspense, drama, heart wrenching moments and romance all wrapped up neatly within the covers. Aura Imbarus has put together an amazing work that made me get in touch with feelings I didn’t know I had and some I wish I didn’t. That is not a bad thing though.
The history of the character’s life, the trials and tribulations that she went through are gut wrenching, uplifting, sad and joyous. I feel that if one couldn’t gain something from reading this novel either they are heartless or totally unfeeling. That is how strongly I feel about the novel, and why I chose this as the first one I wanted to write about. Pick this novel up, digest it, embrace it, enjoy it; I did. Have you read the novel? What are your thoughts? I would love to compare them to see if I off the mark here. Feel free to leave a comment.
Here are Aura Imbarus’s links, check them out. FYI: You can go into my Amazon Bookstore and get the novel without leaving the blog.
Aura Imbarus, PhD
www.auraimbarus.com
Author of "Out of the Transylvania Night"
Available at Barnes&Noble and Amazon
www.auraimbarus.com/books/index.htm
The history of the character’s life, the trials and tribulations that she went through are gut wrenching, uplifting, sad and joyous. I feel that if one couldn’t gain something from reading this novel either they are heartless or totally unfeeling. That is how strongly I feel about the novel, and why I chose this as the first one I wanted to write about. Pick this novel up, digest it, embrace it, enjoy it; I did. Have you read the novel? What are your thoughts? I would love to compare them to see if I off the mark here. Feel free to leave a comment.
Here are Aura Imbarus’s links, check them out. FYI: You can go into my Amazon Bookstore and get the novel without leaving the blog.
Aura Imbarus, PhD
www.auraimbarus.com
Author of "Out of the Transylvania Night"
Available at Barnes&Noble and Amazon
www.auraimbarus.com/books/index.htm
January 5, 2011
This is the 1st memoir I read, and it did not disappoint. What a incredible story. The Author has written such a beautiful, thrilling story about growing up in Transylvania and living in a communist country. Being from Cuban decent, we know something about communism as well and its incredible to know people in other parts of the world are going through the same challenges as other. We get to experience the life choices that Aura has to make as she grows up and in to her adult life. We experience all the hardships of living day to day, it makes you realizes how much we take from granted in our lives here in the states. Don't let the book's title fool you, there are no paranormal creatures in this book. This books helps you understand individual strengths and never to give up hope. This is a book you will not put down until you have read the last word. Aura's tale is just Amazing!
review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2011...
review link: http://www.onceuponatwilight.com/2011...
August 11, 2010
Out of the Transylvania Night is a fast paced, beautifully written memoir. It is about Aura, Transylvania, Communism and migration. Aura grows up in Transylvania and is witness to what Communism is REALLY about. My father has always loved the idea of Communism, but if he was to really experience, as did Aura the realities, he wouldn't any longer. Aura carries you with her as she grows up and makes some very hard choices. Stay with family, leave and live a decent life. Go with man she loves, or listen to her father. There's ups and there's downs and I enjoyed them all. Now going to Transylvania is definitely on my bucket list.
August 13, 2010
Amazing book, you can't put it down. Aura's life is truly amazing! I highly recommend this book.
May 21, 2018
Out of the Transylvania Night is a deeply moving account of one woman’s search for her own identity, firstly under the Communist dictatorship of the ruthlessly oppressive Ceauşescu, and, later, as she struggles to maintain her integrity in the face of overwhelming materialism. The memoir opens in the dying days of the Ceauşescu regime, as the local Romanian citizenry decide to fight back, after decades of misrule. As Dumitru Ciocoi-Pop writes in his Foreword to this heartrending memoir: “In Aura Imbarus’s literary confession the genuine represents the perspective forming experience of the entire story, which unfolds naturally and convincingly, offering insight not only into social and political realities unfamiliar to the average American reader, but also into the mysteries and strivings of the female heart.”
Finding that the Romania to survive the brutality of Ceauşescu’s regime is almost as distorted, both socially and economically, as it was before the revolution took place, Imbarus opts for a new life in the New World, only to find that, although within the space of seven short years she is able to acquire all the outward trappings of the American Dream, her own perceptions have become so distorted that she almost loses everything for which she was once so eager to strive. How she is able to restore her own inner sense of well-being and purpose is of key concern to the narrative of Out of the Transylvania Night. This remarkable story advances at a cracking pace, which keeps one riveted from start to finish. Her family and relationships with others are described with such fulsomeness that it comes as no surprise that she finally eschews the superficiality of outward show in favor of a determination to live herself out as a woman with a deep self-knowledge made all the more acute by the hardships that she has had to endure.
Out of the Transylvania Night is refreshingly different to the media coverage of revolutions and political unrest, which usually presents a fragmented and devastated world, with few redemptive qualities. The fluency of the writing conveys the impression that the author has English as her home language—in fact, she writes much better than do many English First Language speakers. Her sense of humor is also catchy. I loved her comment that in America, one has to apply for a TP certificate to qualify for using toilet paper! All in all, an impressive and insightful memoir that reads like a well-written novel, Out of the Transylvania Night is worthwhile reading, no matter your age or background.
The work ends with book group discussion questions, evidence of the fact that Imbarus, apart from being a former popular journalist in Europe, is also a university professor and an award-winning educator. She is a co-founder and ambassador of the Romanian-American Professional Network (RAPN), as well as being the president of its Los Angeles chapter. She is also president of EuroCircle’s Los Angeles chapter.
Finding that the Romania to survive the brutality of Ceauşescu’s regime is almost as distorted, both socially and economically, as it was before the revolution took place, Imbarus opts for a new life in the New World, only to find that, although within the space of seven short years she is able to acquire all the outward trappings of the American Dream, her own perceptions have become so distorted that she almost loses everything for which she was once so eager to strive. How she is able to restore her own inner sense of well-being and purpose is of key concern to the narrative of Out of the Transylvania Night. This remarkable story advances at a cracking pace, which keeps one riveted from start to finish. Her family and relationships with others are described with such fulsomeness that it comes as no surprise that she finally eschews the superficiality of outward show in favor of a determination to live herself out as a woman with a deep self-knowledge made all the more acute by the hardships that she has had to endure.
Out of the Transylvania Night is refreshingly different to the media coverage of revolutions and political unrest, which usually presents a fragmented and devastated world, with few redemptive qualities. The fluency of the writing conveys the impression that the author has English as her home language—in fact, she writes much better than do many English First Language speakers. Her sense of humor is also catchy. I loved her comment that in America, one has to apply for a TP certificate to qualify for using toilet paper! All in all, an impressive and insightful memoir that reads like a well-written novel, Out of the Transylvania Night is worthwhile reading, no matter your age or background.
The work ends with book group discussion questions, evidence of the fact that Imbarus, apart from being a former popular journalist in Europe, is also a university professor and an award-winning educator. She is a co-founder and ambassador of the Romanian-American Professional Network (RAPN), as well as being the president of its Los Angeles chapter. She is also president of EuroCircle’s Los Angeles chapter.
January 7, 2018
I enjoyed reading this book. I am currently interested in Romanian history as a family member is moving there soon. The authors experiences in the revolution and after as well as her immigrant experience in the US held my attention. I don't think everyone would be interested in the revolution and her family dynamics however.
August 23, 2017
A great reminder that hard work accomplishes dreams. The love story is pretty good too :)
August 8, 2018
Donation bin.
March 30, 2020
The writing style reminded me of a young adult novel. However, this true story is amazing and makes me proud to be Romanian.
September 30, 2010
In this powerful read you will journey along with Aura experiencing every emotion imaginable during the Communist rule and the violent Romanian Revolution.
Under this horrendous rule, neighbors became informants and the Romanian security force, made people quietly disappear during the night.
On a cold December day, close to Christmas in 1989 sniper fire rang out into crowds of shoppers. The bloodshed went on for 5 days while Aura and her family did what they had to do just to survive.
I admire Aura, as she is a rebel resolved to not be totally ruled by the iron thumb, but to keep her spirit free.
Aura and her husband Michael fled to America with only $400, two pieces of luggage, and a dream, they settled in Los Angeles in 1997. After eking out an existence in such a crushing Country, living life to the fullest in America with all it’s temptations was easy to get caught up in, enough that it causes marital issues. Aura also has to deal with her mother passing.
In 2010, the Communist Dictator, Ceausecu is exhumed to hopefully answer many questions that Romanians have about a rumored cover-up. Can Aura finally have some resolve to the mysteries of her past as well?
Wow! is the word for this memoir. It’s brilliantly written and each page reaches out at you. A must have for your bookshelf!
Under this horrendous rule, neighbors became informants and the Romanian security force, made people quietly disappear during the night.
On a cold December day, close to Christmas in 1989 sniper fire rang out into crowds of shoppers. The bloodshed went on for 5 days while Aura and her family did what they had to do just to survive.
I admire Aura, as she is a rebel resolved to not be totally ruled by the iron thumb, but to keep her spirit free.
Aura and her husband Michael fled to America with only $400, two pieces of luggage, and a dream, they settled in Los Angeles in 1997. After eking out an existence in such a crushing Country, living life to the fullest in America with all it’s temptations was easy to get caught up in, enough that it causes marital issues. Aura also has to deal with her mother passing.
In 2010, the Communist Dictator, Ceausecu is exhumed to hopefully answer many questions that Romanians have about a rumored cover-up. Can Aura finally have some resolve to the mysteries of her past as well?
Wow! is the word for this memoir. It’s brilliantly written and each page reaches out at you. A must have for your bookshelf!
June 27, 2013
When I first read this title, I immediately thought, oh a vampire book. I was never so off-track in my life!! Out of the Transylvania Night is a memoir and it is a story of which you will never forget.
Living under communist regime, life is nothing as we know it. To have any individuality was frowned upon. Aura loved her bits of buttons and zippers to get away from the gray that was everywhere. There were securities everywhere, eyes watching your every move, some you thought has beloved friends or neighbors, informants. You could trust no one with anything. And then sometimes people just...disappeared.
When politics prevail and life still does not change, Aura and her new husband go to America, looking for the American Dream. Surely it would be easier and they could relax their shoulders a bit. But even here, there are pitfalls and Aura has to look within herself to answer some hard questions. How much is enough?
Beautifully written, with vivid painted backgrounds, Aura speaks to you like she was sitting in the room over a coffee. Politics, romance, history and the human spirit all weave together to create a remarkable story, Aura's life. If you enjoy reading memoirs, you will want to pick this one up. It's an amazing read!!
Living under communist regime, life is nothing as we know it. To have any individuality was frowned upon. Aura loved her bits of buttons and zippers to get away from the gray that was everywhere. There were securities everywhere, eyes watching your every move, some you thought has beloved friends or neighbors, informants. You could trust no one with anything. And then sometimes people just...disappeared.
When politics prevail and life still does not change, Aura and her new husband go to America, looking for the American Dream. Surely it would be easier and they could relax their shoulders a bit. But even here, there are pitfalls and Aura has to look within herself to answer some hard questions. How much is enough?
Beautifully written, with vivid painted backgrounds, Aura speaks to you like she was sitting in the room over a coffee. Politics, romance, history and the human spirit all weave together to create a remarkable story, Aura's life. If you enjoy reading memoirs, you will want to pick this one up. It's an amazing read!!
July 4, 2011
I accepted this book from the publisher not really knowing what to expect, but wanting to broaden my reading horizons a bit. I'm so glad that I did. The story of Aura Imbarus was fascinating, heartbreaking and uplifting all at the same time. Aura takes us on the roller coaster ride of her life. While she has a beautiful family and is surrounded by love from them, the country around her is in turmoil and she dreams of making a new life in America. Things that I take for granted every day, were luxuries rarely had during her life in Romania. Reading about her struggles reminded me to be grateful for the country that I live in, and the blessings in my life. Her writing style was easy to read and very compelling. Definitely worth reading!
November 15, 2013
An interesting follow-up to my recent trip to Romania. It was really compelling to read what it was like for an 18-year-old girl to go through the 1989 revolution that ended communist rule. Fascinating that I was in some of the places she mentioned. And an unexpected follow-on was to find that she then emigated to Los Angeles--my neck of the woods--and to think of the differences between the two times and places through her eyes. Enjoyed it.
November 1, 2011
This story describes the transformation of an Eastern European into a Californian. It is a personal story which is nicely told. It helped me understand the life an times of Eastern Europe, immigration issues too. etc.
June 24, 2012
Tanner (knowing I love memoirs of courageous woman) gave me this book for Mother's Day! I can't wait to begin reading!
January 29, 2019
Read for a class. This was a very easy read, enjoyable. 1st person, memoir that begins when the author is a teenager with her experience of the events around the overthrow of Ceausescu, her life in the few years afterwards, and in the last third or so, her moving to LA and getting caught up in a very materialistic mindset.
April 5, 2019
“Daylight empowered the regime to encircle us like starved wolves, and so night had always been the time to steal a bit of freedom.” This is a quote by Imbarus, during her time in Romania. It is a metaphor for how Romania fought back against Communism.
She asked herself throughout this book, "What will it cost for someone to find true love and life fulfillment?"
Whatever it takes to find love and true happiness.
This book was a first person memoir about Aura Imbarus and her life as she grew up. She went through many struggles during Communist Romania (1947-1989) and even more when she migrated to the United States.
From rooftop snipers to crazy revolts to living in Los Angeles, this book is filled with a lot of action and drama that really makes you feel for these characters. A quick summary of the book is that the Imbarus family went through tough times during the Communistic era of Romania. Eventually Aura falls in love with a man named Michael and they decide to move to America to pursue her dream in teaching. Just as she thought life was going to be better from the tough times in Romania, everything got more hectic for her there.
Before I read this, I thought my life was difficult living in Communist China. But after I moved to America, I was able to experience true freedom. I can relate to the author remembering all the struggles my mom and dad have been through under Chinese regime.
I was very fascinated by the words of the author on each page. Aura made the characters very well developed as if you could see them and you knew who they were. I found comfort knowing that through the discomfort the autobiographer went through, she was determined and never gave up. This book shows that people should never give up and keep on persevering. People always try to give up but Aura didn't, neither did Michael, nor did any other "good" character in the book. Whatever situation they were in they kept going, good or bad, poor or rich.
People living in poor conditions and not having enough money to provide for their families are ignored by the rich ruling privilege who have power and control the government.
I wish that all people living in dictator led countries can hold a copy of this book.
I wish people who complain about their own personal struggles and problems can read this book.
I wish that all people who are struggling and are on the verge of giving up can find comfort and encouragement through this book.
This book has challenged me to continue endeavoring in my studies as I want to be successful and find true happiness.
When I am discouraged or down on my luck, I know that I can turn to these pages for strength and motivation to keep going.
Every high-schooler needs to get his or her hands on this book.
FOR FREEDOM!
FOR LOVE!
FOR EQUALITY FOR HUMANKIND!
April 5, 2019
“Daylight empowered the regime to encircle us like starved wolves, and so night had always been the time to steal a bit of freedom.” This is a quote by Imbarus, during her time in Romania. It is a metaphor for how Romania fought back against Communism.
She asked herself throughout this book, "What will it cost for someone to find true love and life fulfillment?"
Whatever it takes to find love and true happiness.
This book was a first person memoir about Aura Imbarus and her life as she grew up. She went through many struggles during Communist Romania (1947-1989) and even more when she migrated to the United States.
From rooftop snipers to crazy revolts to living in Los Angeles, this book is filled with a lot of action and drama that really makes you feel for these characters. A quick summary of the book is that the Imbarus family went through tough times during the Communistic era of Romania. Eventually Aura falls in love with a man named Michael and they decide to move to America to pursue her dream in teaching. Just as she thought life was going to be better from the tough times in Romania, everything got more hectic for her there.
Before I read this, I thought my life was difficult living in Communist China. But after I moved to America, I was able to experience true freedom. I can relate to the author remembering all the struggles my mom and dad have been through under Chinese regime.
I was very fascinated by the words of the author on each page. Aura made the characters very well developed as if you could see them and you knew who they were. I found comfort knowing that through the discomfort the autobiographer went through, she was determined and never gave up. This book shows that people should never give up and keep on persevering. People always try to give up but Aura didn't, neither did Michael, nor did any other "good" character in the book. Whatever situation they were in they kept going, good or bad, poor or rich.
People living in poor conditions and not having enough money to provide for their families are ignored by the rich ruling privilege who have power and control the government.
I wish that all people living in dictator led countries can hold a copy of this book.
I wish people who complain about their own personal struggles and problems can read this book.
I wish that all people who are struggling and are on the verge of giving up can find comfort and encouragement through this book.
This book has challenged me to continue endeavoring in my studies as I want to be successful and find true happiness.
When I am discouraged or down on my luck, I know that I can turn to these pages for strength and motivation to keep going.
Every high-schooler needs to get his or her hands on this book.
FOR FREEDOM!
FOR LOVE!
FOR EQUALITY FOR HUMANKIND!
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