New York: Scribner, (1999) dj. Hardcover first edition - The first novel by this award-winning Canadian short story writer, one which brings her own family history into life. Told as nine interwoven stories, this novel portrays Jewish village life in the 19th century. In the center is Misha the midwife, the "wayward heart of Blaszka, she holds safe all the local secrets, including the stories of the four vilda hayas, 'the wild creatures,' as she and her girlfriends were known." Set during a nine-month period in 1894, each chapter recounts many of the same events through the eyes of different characters. Author's note, recommended reading, glossary. 414 pp. ISBN: 0-684853035.