After weeks of preparation, we are excited to finally reveal this project, created in collaboration with Katarzyna Herman. As recording continues, we are now able to offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the process.
This is the second audiobook featuring the memories of Sybiraks published by the Sybir Memorial Museum. Following the strong reception of the first title, narrated by Adam Woronowicz, many listeners were eager for a continuation. This time, the story is brought to life by Katarzyna Herman—an actress born in Mrągowo and raised in Białystok, known for her sensitivity and distinctive voice, and returning to her roots for this project.
On April 22, the project was officially presented at a press conference attended by Katarzyna Herman; Professor Wojciech Śleszyński, Director of the Museum; Marcin Zwolski, PhD, Head of the Research Department and editor of the memoirs; Marcin Tomkiel, Editor-in-Chief of Polish Radio Białystok; and Agnieszka Czarkowska, Head of the Reportage and Documentary Studio.
The Museum’s Director spoke about the challenge of selecting stories from hundreds of Sybirak testimonies: “Every year we face the same dilemma: which stories to tell so they remain both meaningful and deeply moving. This time, we chose a story seen through the eyes of a child.” Katarzyna Herman added: “For me, this is a kind of mission. I rarely record audiobooks, but I felt this was an opportunity to return to my hometown and contribute something meaningful.”
There Was Such a Family is a story full of emotion, energy, and remarkable resilience—despite the dramatic experiences it portrays. One of the Museum’s earliest publications now returns in a modern, narrative format that allows listeners to engage with the story on a deeper level.
The Sybir Memorial Museum continues to develop modern approaches to telling history, with a strong focus on narrative and emotion. Marcin Zwolski, PhD, emphasized that such approaches resonate especially with younger audiences: “When they hear the authentic voice of someone who lived through these events, they experience the story in a completely different way than through dry historical facts.”
Work on the audiobook is ongoing, and the release date will be announced soon. In the meantime, we encourage you to revisit our first audiobook, narrated by Adam Woronowicz.
Photos: Polish Radio Białystok
