USA (Birthplace Moldova)
First Language(s): Russian
Second Language(s):
English
Mark is a refugee writing about immigration, aging, and chronic pain. His books include My Life at First Try (Counterpoint Press), An Accidental American Odyssey, and The Most Excellent Immigrant (both Livingston Press), Short, Vigorous Roots (with Sue O’Neill, Ooligan Press). His short fiction has appeared in Virginia Quarterly and The Mississippi Review. Short, Vigorous Roots was the 2022 Foreword Indies winner. Kirkus Review named The Most Excellent Immigrant one of the best books of 2023.
What was your favorite book as a child?
I was a thoughtful, forward-looking boy. I enjoyed adult books. For example, I memorized Pushkin’s novel-in-verse Eugene Onegin at the age of eleven. Maybe that’s why my first book, My Life at First Try, was a novel-in-flashes.
What was the original reason or motivation why you started writing creatively?
Just like every other writer, I had something to share with the world. Moreover, I was hoping to convince the world to read it.
What was the most adventurous or thrilling thing you ever did/experienced?
Immigration to the US from what used to be the Soviet Union. That triggered the most profound and thrilling changes in my life (not counting my marriage, of course).
Do you listen to music while reading or writing?
No. I want to give my writing 100% of my attention.
Short Story
Deda and Baba Forever. A Diptych.
Issue Spring '26
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