LINDALE, Texas — In a quiet corner of Lillie Russell Memorial Library, a unique cultural exchange is taking place with a display of traditional Ukrainian Motanka dolls.
Julia Illasova and Anastasia Hooks are teaching Lindale kids how to make the dolls.
"We just wanted to share a little bit of history of Ukraine here with the kids in the library. Ukraine has a very ancient historical background that has its roots way back, some scientists say 40,000 years ago," said Hooks.
Hooks is friends with the creator of the dolls, Julia Ilasova. She said the dolls are deeply rooted in ancient traditions.
"These dolls used to represent pagan traditions, pre-Christianity, where this doll represented mother earth and was used in different parts of the culture, like for playing dolls for kids or wedding or protection for the family," said Hooks.
This cultural exchange is more than just a history lesson.
For Hooks, it's a personal connection to her Ukrainian roots and it gives her a chance to share her heritage with others.
"That means a lot to me because with my soul, I can connect to my Ukrainian sister. It makes me happy that I can share my culture and my background and tell kids a little bit of that as well," said Hooks.
The classes encourages kids to engage in hands-on activities and learn about Ukrainian traditions firsthand.
"They can learn and they can just have fun before Christmas. They can make those dolls on their own and maybe later go and research on their own and read about the culture," said Hooks.