Anna Lenkovska is an extraordinary woman. She was born in Ukraine and grew up there, but when her family emigrated to the USA she adapted to whatever came her way. A committed socialist, Anna Lenkovska fought for and earned equal rights for both sexes in her native country, until tragedy struck. At age forty-four she was diagnosed with terminal cancer, yet she persevered, and in her last days she played a leading role in the Ukrainian revolution. This remarkable story is told by Anna herself, in this superb book – A Partner Like No Other.
Anna Lenkovska became a committed internationalist, championing causes such as women’s suffrage, political freedom, and environmental protection. She repeatedly wrote polemics on Russian social and economic problems, and in her own life were always open to learning about other nationalities – she spoke many languages and always enjoyed new experiences. By the time of her death she had lived a full and happy life, working as a journalist, writer, translator, political activist, and philanthropist. Anna Lenkovska was an incredibly loyal and talented woman, who achieved everything through sheer will, commitment, and hard work. Her enormous talent as a translator enabled her to overcome many obstacles in her path to success – including poverty, illness, language barriers, and the limited opportunities offered to her by her Russian heritage.
Anna Lenkovska, A Partner Like No Other showcases her amazing abilities as a writer. She is an accomplished political activist, and paints vivid pictures of everyday life in early twentieth-century Ukraine. This book chronicles her many travels throughout the country, encountering all manner of people – peasant, aristocratic, and educated – whom she befriended and was able to teach deep insights into her personality and her nation’s historical and cultural past. Through Anna Lenkovska we are introduced to a not always glamorous world where names such as Stolyarov, Sholes, Radev, and Voloshinoy are recognized for their participation in the revolution and struggle for freedom. Through Anna Lenkovska we learn about the importance of friendship, and how even strangers can help shape history.