AVAK Luncheon Speaker Program

Author, Victoria Atamian Waterman shares her journey in creating Who She Left Behind, a historical fiction novel inspired by her Armenian heritage, family stories, and a deep connection to the past. The idea for the book came to her on May 23, 2015, during a visit to Aunt Vicky’s grave, where she encountered mysterious white silk flowers, sparking curiosity and a desire to uncover family history.

Drawing on her Armenian roots, she recalls childhood memories, family heirlooms like needlelace, and stories passed down by grandparents. Through research, connections made on Facebook, and assistance from experts, she began piecing together her ancestors' lives, facing challenges like gaps in historical records and myths. Despite the difficulties, she received clues, including a passage in a history book that confirmed the existence of her ancestral home, reaffirming the truth behind her family’s stories. She seeks to honor Armenian traditions, historical events, and the resilience…