Czech and Slovak Touches: Recipes, History, Travel, Folk Arts

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Summary: Czech and Slovak Touches
Review: The past, present and future of the Czech and Slovak people is reflected in Czech and Slovak Touches: Recipes, History, Travel, Folk Arts, a revision of the original Czech Book by Pat Martin.

In this book, an outgrowth of a trip to the two Republics, Pat Martin touches on the magnificent history of the Czech and Slovak Republics, which lie side-by-side in the heart of Europe. Significant events, sites, culture and traditions demonstrate the rich heritage shared and preserved by the Czechs and Slovaks.

Events leading to the immigration of the strong populace of Czech and Slovak people in North America are cited, along with the successful establishment of the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, Cedar Rapids, Iowa, a showcase of their rich heritage. Excerpts from statements at the Museum dedication made by Czech Republic President Vaclav Havel, Slovak Republic President Michal Kovac, and U.S. President William J. Clinton are included.

Personal essays tell of life in the New World and ties to the Old. How and where to begin a search for family and cultural ties is noted by Mark Vasko-Bigaouette, director of Heritage Tours, which emphasizes defining Czech and Slovak roots.

Travel in the two Republics includes the author's personal observations of Prague and Bratislava, as well as areas that reveal the charm and distinction of these two nations as a natural entity: from the views and skyline of the Golden City of Prague, to the pastoral and peaceful scenes of Moravian wine country, to the hiking, mountain climbing, and skiing delights of the High Tatra Mountains in Slovakia.

Further definition of national character is observed in folk crafts and enterprise, traditional celebrations, and foods. Over 100 recipes of traditional foods are reprinted from the original book.

Stunning color photographs by Joan Liffring-Zug Bourret and others depict the beauty and magnificence of the two Republics. Additional photos show Czechs and Slovaks in America.