Diary of an Invasion

In his book "The War of Donbas," Andrey Kurkov provides an insider's account of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, exploring the fraught interrelation of Russian and Ukrainian history, the complicated coexistence of their languages, and the resilience of the Ukrainian people in the face of occupation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 28 September 2023
Publisher: Welbeck Publishing Group

In his captivating book, "The War in Ukraine: A Russian Story," Andrey Kurkov offers an insider's account of how an ordinary life transformed into an extraordinary journey. The Times praises it as an "immediate and important" work, while the Daily Express describes it as "uplifting and utterly defiant." Kurkov's writing seamlessly blends political and historical commentary with a personal journal, providing a profound exploration of the complex interrelation between Russian and Ukrainian history, the intricate coexistence of their languages, and the unwavering resilience of a peaceful society in the face of occupation.

Through his vivid storytelling, Kurkov paints a defiant portrait of his compatriots, showcasing their unity and determination in the face of adversity. He narrates the stories of individuals who have faced unimaginable hardships, from the bakers who continue to bake bread amidst the ruins to the amputee who is carried aboard an evacuating train, accompanied by his beloved roosters. Grandmothers escape occupied towns, carrying their noisome roosters as they seek safety, while children are born deep within besieged cities, defying the odds. Farmers, too, continue to work the fields, made lethal by unexploded shells, demonstrating their unwavering spirit and determination to survive.

Kurkov's book is a testament to the resilience of the Ukrainian people and the communities that have come together to support them. Despite the networks of toloka, community work for the common good, and the embittering reticence of some European nations to fulfill their promises of aid and armaments, hope remains steadfast. Kurkov weaves his personal story with those of other displaced Ukrainians, highlighting the extraordinary lengths that these communities have gone to care for them. He documents the unwavering spirit of the displaced, their unwavering hope for a safe return, and their determination to rebuild their lives and their nation.

"The War in Ukraine: A Russian Story" is a powerful and poignant exploration of the human cost of war, a testament to the indomitable spirit of the Ukrainian people, and a call to action for the world to stand in solidarity with their struggle for freedom and democracy. Kurkov's writing is a testament to the power of storytelling and the ability of literature to shed light on the complexities of history and human experiences.

Weight: 270g
Dimension: 128 x 199 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800699090