Newcomers: Book Two

Bubi is a young protagonist who is exiled from Switzerland in 1938 and returns to Ljubljana, where he faces challenges and humiliations of growing up in a strange environment, narrated with uncanny naivete. He navigates friendship, family, and sexuality in a land under hostile occupation.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 28 January 2020
Publisher: Archipelago Books

Bubi, a young protagonist, faces a perpetual sense of alienation as he is exiled from his native Switzerland in 1938. Despite returning to his family's home in Ljubljana, Slovenia, their mixed German heritage sets them apart from the local community. Caught between the loss of his familiar surroundings and the struggle to comprehend a foreign language, Bubi grapples with the hardships and indignities of adolescence in an unfamiliar land. The novel is narrated with a remarkable naiveté, seamlessly shifting between tender memories and shocking acts of violence. As Bubi navigates the complexities of friendship, family, and his burgeoning sexuality, he finds himself living in a country occupied by hostile forces.

Bubi's Exile:
Bubi's exile from Switzerland in 1938 marks the beginning of a challenging and uncertain chapter in his life. He is forced to leave behind his familiar surroundings, the language he grew up speaking, and the connections he had built in his homeland. The loss of his home and the unfamiliarity of his new environment create a sense of disorientation and vulnerability for Bubi.
Return to Ljubljana:
Despite the hardships, Bubi's family decides to return to Ljubljana, their hometown in Slovenia. However, their mixed German heritage makes them stand out in the local community, which is predominantly Slovene. Bubi's family members face discrimination and prejudice, which further exacerbates his sense of isolation and alienation.
Language Barrier:
One of the most significant challenges Bubi faces is the language barrier. He is unable to communicate effectively with his family and classmates, which leads to misunderstandings and social isolation. Bubi's struggle to learn the local language adds to his feelings of frustration and helplessness.
Adolescence and Growing Pains:
As Bubi navigates the challenges of adolescence, he experiences the typical struggles and emotions associated with this period. He struggles with his identity, seeks validation from his peers, and grapples with his burgeoning sexuality. The occupation of the country by hostile forces adds an additional layer of complexity to Bubi's life, as he witnesses the impact of war on his community and the lives of his loved ones.
Friendship and Family:
Despite the hardships, Bubi finds solace in his friendship with a group of young boys who share his interests and experiences. They provide him with a sense of belonging and support, helping him to navigate the complexities of growing up in a foreign land. Bubi's relationship with his family is also complex, as he tries to understand and reconcile his mixed heritage with the expectations of the local community.
Shocking Violence:
The novel also depicts shocking acts of violence and oppression that occur during the occupation. Bubi witnesses the brutality of the German soldiers and the suffering of his fellow Slovenes. These experiences leave a lasting impact on Bubi, shaping his perspective on the world and his commitment to fighting for a better future.
Narrative Style:
The novel is narrated with a remarkable naiveté, which adds to the authenticity and emotional impact of the story. Bubi's voice is relatable and genuine, and his experiences resonate with readers on a personal level. The use of simple language and straightforward storytelling allows the reader to fully immerse themselves in Bubi's world and experience his challenges and triumphs alongside him.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, "Bubi" is a powerful and poignant novel that explores the experiences of a young protagonist who faces exile, discrimination, and the challenges of growing up in a foreign land. Through the eyes of Bubi, the reader gains a deeper understanding of the complexities of identity, friendship, family, and the impact of war on individuals and communities. The novel's narrative style, combined with its naiveté, creates a powerful and emotional experience that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 185 x 152 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781939810403