Vita Nostra

The English language translation of the internationally bestselling Russian novel "The Institute of Special Technologies" is a brilliant dark fantasy that combines psychological suspense, enchantment, and terror to explore human existence in a fresh and provocative way. Sasha Samokhina is asked to undertake a strange task for Farit Kozhenikov, and is rewarded with a shining golden coin. She discovers that the school is no ordinary school, with books that are impossible to read, lessons that are obscure, and knowledge that refuses to be remembered. Despite this, Sasha undergoes changes that defy matter and time, with experiences that are nothing like what she could have dreamed of before.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 416 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2019
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

The internationally bestselling Russian novel has been brilliantly translated into English, offering a captivating dark fantasy that delves into psychological suspense, enchantment, and terror, prompting us to reevaluate our existence in a fresh and thought-provoking manner.

"A book that has the potential to become a modern classic," acclaimed bestselling author Lev Grossman praised it.

Sasha Samokhina's life takes an unexpected turn when she meets Farit Kozhenikov. While on holiday, Sasha is approached by the enigmatic Farit with a peculiar request. reluctantly, she agrees and is rewarded with a shimmering golden coin. As she completes more tasks, Sasha receives an increasing number of coins, until Farit instructs her to travel to a remote village and use her gold to gain entrance to the Institute of Special Technologies.

Upon arriving at the institute, Sasha quickly realizes that this is no ordinary school. The books are impenetrable, the lessons enigmatic, and the knowledge elusive, causing frustration and bewilderment. However, Sasha undergoes remarkable transformations that defy the laws of matter and time, experiencing extraordinary experiences that surpass her wildest dreams.

However, this newfound knowledge comes with a heavy price. The school employs terror and coercion to maintain discipline among its students, threatening the families of those who disobey. Sasha must navigate a treacherous path, balancing her desire for knowledge and her fear of the consequences.

"A complex blend of adventure, magic, science, and philosophy," the novel is expressed through a distinctive Russian voice, transporting readers to a realm beyond their imagination.

This captivating story invites us to explore the depths of human existence, challenging our perceptions of reality and pushing the boundaries of our imagination. It is a testament to the power of literature to transport us to new worlds, evoke emotions, and provoke thought.

In conclusion, the English translation of the internationally bestselling Russian novel is a masterpiece that deserves to be celebrated and cherished. It offers a captivating blend of dark fantasy, psychological suspense, enchantment, and terror, challenging our understanding of human existence and inspiring us to explore the unknown.

Weight: 294g
Dimension: 130 x 198 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780008272890