Alindarka's Children: Things Will Be Bad

Alhierd Bacharevic's masterful English debut, "The Leid," is a contemporary Hansel and Gretel adventure that follows Alicia and her brother Avi, who are imprisoned in a camp where they are trained to forget their language. The Leid is considered a sickness to be cured and replaced by the Lingo, a pure form of language. The children escape into the forest and end up in even greater danger.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 350 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2020
Publisher: Scotland Street Press

Alhierd Bacharevic, a fresh talent hailing from Belarus, makes his remarkable English debut with "Alicia and Her Brother." Alicia and her brother Avi find themselves confined in a camp nestled on the fringes of a forest, where children undergo a rigorous regime designed to erase their native language. The Leid (or Belarusian language) is viewed as a disease that requires treatment and replacement with the perceived purity of the Lingo (Russian). This captivating tale resembles a modern-day rendition of "Hansel and Gretel," as the children embark on a daring escape into the forest, only to face even greater peril.

Bacharevic's masterful translation prowess brings this story to life in English and Scots, seamlessly transitioning between Russian and Belarusian. The result is a literary masterpiece that captivates readers with its rich imagery, compelling characters, and thought-provoking themes.

In the camp, children are subjected to various forms of therapy, coercion, drugs, and even larynx surgery to suppress their language abilities. The Leid is considered a hindrance to progress and enlightenment, and the Lingo is promoted as the sole means of communication. However, Alicia and Avi, driven by their love for their language and their determination to resist oppression, embark on a secretive quest to preserve their heritage.

Through their bravery and ingenuity, they evade the camp's strict surveillance and venture into the surrounding forest. There, they encounter a diverse range of characters, each with their own unique perspective on language and identity. They meet a wise old woman who tells them stories of the Leid's rich history and cultural significance, a group of rebels who fight against the suppression of minority languages, and a young boy who dreams of learning to speak his native tongue.

As Alicia and Avi navigate the treacherous forest, they face numerous challenges and dangers. They must evade the camp's guards, navigate treacherous terrain, and confront their own fears and doubts. However, their determination and resilience propel them forward, and they eventually find a haven where they can safely practice and celebrate their language.

"Alicia and Her Brother" is a powerful testament to the resilience of language and the power of cultural identity. It explores the complexities of language suppression, the importance of preserving heritage, and the strength of human spirit in the face of adversity. Through its vivid storytelling and profound themes, this book offers a valuable perspective on the ongoing struggle for linguistic diversity and the importance of cultural preservation.

In conclusion, Alhierd Bacharevic's "Alicia and Her Brother" is a remarkable English debut that showcases his talent as a writer and translator. Through his vivid portrayal of a world where language is suppressed and cultural identity is erased, Bacharevic offers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in language, culture, and the power of resistance.

Weight: 388g
Dimension: 131 x 200 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910895405