This film makes me nostalgic for a world I never lived in: rural 19th century Moldova, in a small village at the base of Neamt fortress. The events are so simple, yet so powerful: stealing cherries, sneaking out to swim in the river, singing "Christmas" carols (actually New Year's plugusorul, the kids mix them up). I love how fondly the author reminisces of his parents (his mother especially), his siblings and his village. The costumes are genuine, at least the mother's clothes are specific to the region. And the changing of the seasons is very well done, we get to see the village summer to spring. The child actor playing Nica is also very good. The director Elisabeta Bostan managed to capture the book perfectly! Loved the little brother wearing the pass me down clothes when they go caroling.