Customer Reviews

Sign of Misfortune

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

For those who are not very familiar with Belorussian literature I would first of all like to mention that Bykov is considered one of the greatest writers in Belarus, almost an idol. An iconical figure,a symbol of liberty, patriotism and truth, he devoted all his life and writings to the thing he loved most- Belarus. His books are all about the country, its people,most of them are set in the times of the Great Patriotic War of 1940-1945 which is the most gruesome moment in the country's history. The War took every fourth of Belarus' population, swiping off the Earth dozens of villages and towns. "Sign of Misfortune" is set in one of the typical Belorussian villages, the protagonists are typical rural dwellers that you are bound to see if you visit the country. This is the story about the struggle of the people against fashism,a sad,heartbreaking story about faith and love... Bykov is at his best here, the book is compulsory for literature classes in every school in Belarus. Because of his continuous pursuit of truth and justice,his desire to speak openly, the Writer was practically banished from Belarus by the existing there political system, and had to find asylum in Germany( ironically enough, the country, which regime he was fighting against during the 1940s) If you want to expand your knowledge about Belarus, its people or just read an interesting book, this is the one for you. Don't hesitate to contact me on this matter if you have any questions about Bykov or Belarus, I'll be more than happy to help you.