Book Recommendation: Being Hungarian in America by Ildikó Antal-Ferencz 

If you’re looking for a meaningful read that offers an in-depth view of the Hungarian-American community, I highly recommend Being Hungarian in America by the freelance journalist Ildikó Antal-Ferencz published by Bocskai Radio in Cleveland, Ohio. This book is more than just a collection of interviews—it’s a testament to the strength, resilience, and cultural perseverance of Hungarians living in the United States. 

In this first English edition, Ildikó interviews 50+1 individuals whose lives are dedicated to preserving Hungarian culture and identity. The book explores the multifaceted experiences of the Hungarian-American community, from volunteers actively shaping Hungarian heritage to community leaders fostering deeper connections with the younger generations. It covers various aspects, such as the role of the Hungarian weekend schools, scout programs and church activities, cultural events and festivals, and highlights how these initiatives help individuals stay connected with their Hungarian cultural roots and each other. The stories reveal the challenges of being a Hungarian immigrant in a foreign land, but also showcase the pride and passion of those who actively work to maintain their Hungarian identity while geographically distant from their homeland. 

What I find especially inspiring is the fact that Ildikó not only created this remarkable work in Hungarian but also took the time to translate and publish an English-language version. For many in the U.S., especially those who are second or third-generation Hungarian-Americans, reading in Hungarian may no longer be feasible, yet the desire to stay connected with their Hungarian cultural heritage remains strong. The fact that this book is now available in English opens up this rich, inspiring collection of stories to a whole new audience who may otherwise miss out on learning about the Hungarian communities in North America. This work has made such an important cultural resource accessible to many who might otherwise feel distanced from their Hungarian cultural roots due to language barriers. 

I was delighted to hear that the English edition of this book has received such an enthusiastic response. It’s truly fantastic to see the level of interest and appreciation for the book, and I’d like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Ildikó for her success in reaching so many people with this bilingual effort. It’s a testament to her dedication not only to the Hungarian communities in North America but also to the mission of keeping Hungarian language and culture alive in a globalized world. 

As someone who understands the importance of preserving culture while adapting to new environments, I find the inclusion of the English version a powerful bridge between generations. It’s an especially valuable resource for those who may not be fluent in Hungarian but still wish to learn about the contributions, stories, and experiences of their fellow Hungarian-Americans. 

For those who haven’t yet read it, Ildikó’s previous books , Magyarnak lenni Amerikában (Being Hungarian in America) volumes I and II (and soon III) in Hungarian and its English counterpart, also offer in-depth interviews and powerful insights into the Hungarian communities in North America. The positive reception of these works only underscores the demand for narratives that highlight the Hungarian-American experience in an authentic and heartfelt way. 

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone interested in exploring the lives of those who continue to carry the torch of Hungarian identity. The stories within will inspire you, and the English edition ensures that more people can connect with the spirit of the Hungarian community, no matter where they live. 

Congratulations once again to Ildikó on the success of this amazing project, and I look forward to hearing more about the impact it will continue to have in the future.

If interested, please contact studio@bocskairadio.org or ildikoantalferencz@gmail.com.