Armin Wiebe Knihy

Set in the fictional Mennonite village of Gutenthal, the story follows Yasch Siemens, who feels trapped in a life of unrequited love and limited prospects. His fate takes a turn when he encounters the determined Oata Needarp, whose charm and intoxicating perfume capture his heart. This novel blends humor and poignant moments, offering a vibrant portrayal of community life. Recognized for its wit and storytelling, it has been shortlisted for prestigious literary awards, making it a standout debut in Canadian literature.

The story revolves around Sarah Sudermann, a serious young woman whose life changes after meeting Obrum Kehler. Known for her somber nature, Sarah has always been drawn to darkness, even haunted by a childhood vision of her grandmother's coffin. Obrum, with his playful demeanor and striking appearance, introduces laughter into her life, challenging her perceptions and bringing a new lightness to her existence. This encounter sparks a transformation, highlighting themes of joy, connection, and the contrast between light and dark in one's life.

Set against a backdrop of a homestead, the story revolves around a diverse group of characters—a farm wife, carpenter, midwife, and musician—each grappling with their unfulfilled desires. The narrative weaves in elements of classical music, specifically Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata, as they seek personal satisfaction and freedom from the restrictive norms of their village. This comic folk play explores themes of aspiration and the resourcefulness of individuals in pursuit of their dreams.

Showcasing a selection of stories from Armin Wiebe's 30 year writing career, Armin's Shorts features tales from the familiarly fictitious Mennonite community of Gutenthal, re-imagined origin stories from the Tlįchǫ of the subarctic, and flights of pure fantasy set in modern day Winnipeg. Funny enough to make your "grandmother sit up in her black trough coffin and laugh," and so gut wrenching you'll feel "that clunk in the heart, and that wrunsch in the stomach," master story teller, Armin Wiebe, presents a veritable smorgasbord of short stories that cover the gamut of human experience with a wry sense of humour, a stern sense of justice, and a warm and tender heart.