My workEvery story I write is a bridge—connecting past and present.
Whether delving into the lives of pioneering ancestors or inspiring creativity in young dreamers, each page is a reflection of my passion for history, humanity, and hope.
Plainfolk: Stories from the Farm
Plainfolk: Stories from the Farm and Planer Colonists is a wide-ranging cultural expedition into a unique diaspora of German-Russian farmers, told in the most personal voice.
Here is the tale of the Planer Colonists, of which the Fraesses and Kowalskys were prominent members, and the tremendous impact they had on their families and the communities they cultivated, both before and after their move from their Prussian homeland to their adopted home in rural Canada. Plainfolk traces the author's ancestry back generations to the German-Russian diaspora that arose in the mid-1700s, yet became extinct in the early 1900s. It explores the reasons her ancestors left Prussia in 1818 and 1819, then left South Russia in 1904 and 1906. And it travels with its people to Canada, in pursuit of a different life, where they went on to play a significant role in developing the Canadian Prairies.
The author, who traces both sides of her ancestry to this special group of pioneers, enhances this deeply researched collection of family history with such personal touches as family trees, photos, illustrations, and recipes. The result is a comprehensive snapshot of a remarkable group of pioneers who, Jurgens says, may have been "plain folk," but were always "extraordinary."
Reviews
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"In exploring her family's history, Victoria M. Jurgens provides a broader glimpse into the many Saskatchewan families whose hard work, strength and resilience helped to shape the province we love."
H.P. Bayne, author of the Sullivan Gray Series
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"Victoria M. Jurgens has this great ability to place the soul on the page."
Clennel Anthony, author of The Circle
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"Here are stories, poems, and anecdotes that join hands between the past and the present and bring to life on the page a family's story. Imaginative, honest, and beautifully written. Plainfolk is a book to treasure."
Lynda Monahan, author of A Slow Dance in the Flames, What My Body Knows, Verge, and A Beautiful Stone
Silisia Dances Toward Her Dream
Have you ever wondered, is it too late to pursue your dreams?
Silisia Dances is an encouraging book for young readers to pursue their dreams and passions. Filled with family values and lessons about the importance of determination and seeking support from loved ones. Follow Silisia’s journey as she overcomes personal challenges and dances closer to the things that bring her joy and happiness!
Silisia loves to dance but her dancing dreams may not come true as easily as she expected! Mistakes, difficult instructions, and name-calling from the other girls sure don’t make things any easier! But Dad’s donuts, practices with a friend, and her grandmother’s stories might just be enough to help Silisia dance closer toward her dream.
In this book, you will learn:
It takes practice to achieve your dreams.
Never give up (or as my five-year-old grandson says "perseverance").
Get help from friends, family, and teachers to achieve your dream.
This is a must-read for children and parents who want to delve into self-esteem and lessons in achieving their dreams. Through this book, you will find ways to identify and develop their talents while encouraging confidence and determination.
Reviews
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"Wonderful book! Shows the importance of practice, commitment and the rewards of both. The importance of family, believing in yourself and following through are great lessons taught in this book. Should be in every elementary school library. Thanks Victoria!"
SaskQueen
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"This is a wonderful and inspirational book for children. It's a story about perseverance and overcoming bullying. Highly recommended."
Amazon Review
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"This is a very cute book. My kids loved the story and the illustrations as well!"
Dawn Jurgens
Coming Soon…
Keep Creating is my upcoming inspirational book for writers and creators, filled with uplifting quotes and stories born from the bond between two 'writing sisters’, designed to motivate and encourage writers and creatives to keep pursuing their artistic passions.
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Newsletter
Whether you're a reader, a writer, or simply a lover of stories, you'll enjoy exclusive updates on my latest projects, thoughtful insights, and inspiration to keep creating. Plus, you'll be the first to know about upcoming books, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and resources to nurture your creative journey.