Talking to the Moon

In 2006, I found myself on the high seas aboard a sailboat I knew next to nothing about handling. Was I mad? No way! The audacious escape from my home-town in Russia and the ensuing voyage across the world was my dream come true! I was with a person I loved, and finally, I was my authentic self.

Talking to the Moon recounts my very first steps toward trusting myself, listening to my heart, and eventually refusing to sacrifice my life for others' visions of me. It's been one heck of a battle, but the rewards have been infinite. I'm here to tell the story! I don't live a lie. I am with Meg, and I am having the kind of adventure I wouldn't have dared to dream of, back in Russia!

My story is about love. Starting with my escape from Russia, I permitted myself to love me! To love the world and the person who was making it shine for me. I have never stopped loving, am learning more every day, and I am living my dream!

"I read the book Talking to the Moon in one go... It just felt near to the heart. I can relate to each and every word you have written. I wonder how Indian and Russian society have same backward viewpoint towards women and queer community. Still I love my country more than anything like You do. The book was so heart touching that I was crying most of the times.. Again thank you so much for being a role model." -- Cosmic Soul

Elena Vaytsel

Elena Vaytsel is one of the two women featured in BBC's, Outlook Weekend: The Voyage of Meg and Elena, and NPR's, Snap Judgment: Kismet, for their escape from Russia, and year-long, planet-crossing run for their lives and freedom. When the programs were released, they, along with other publications and media, made mention of Elena's Talking to the Moon, which was only available in Russian. This English language edition is not a translation of her Russian language memoir, but Elena's retelling of her story anew, with the advantage of years of freedom and experience, shining a light into the darkness she escaped.