Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Zoya's Gift: Building a Bridge to a Global Family is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, sociocultural issues, and slice-of-life genres. It is best suited to the general adult reading audience and contains some non-graphic discussions of violence and war crimes. Penned by author Gail McCormick, this is a heart-wrenching and heart-warming memoir that chronicles the author's transformative journey from heartbreak to healing through her relationship with Ukrainian twin sisters and their extended global family. Amidst the backdrop of infertility and the aftermath of the Chernobyl disaster, McCormick discovers unexpected connections and profound love that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.

Author Gail McCormick utilizes her natural warmth and positive spirit to craft an emotional and enlightening memoir that is sure to leave a lasting impact on the hearts of all who read it. There’s a poignancy to the storytelling that allows McCormick to touch on the right topics at just the right moments, weaving together themes of loss, resilience, and the unbreakable bonds of family. Through her vivid descriptions of people and places, layered with her own heartfelt reflections and personal connection to the issues at hand, she invites readers into her world and encourages them to see the many benefits of acceptance and understanding of other cultures. The pacing of the memoir has a biopic, cinematic quality, where moments of joy and sorrow intertwine with explained complexities concerning cross-cultural relationships. The author's exploration of motherhood, identity, and the human capacity for love resonates deeply, offering a message of hope and unity in a world often divided by differences. Overall, Zoya's Gift is a highly recommended read for fans of inspirational memoirs everywhere.