Top 5 books by contemporary Ukrainian authors worth reading
Ukrainian literature is distinguished by its brightness, originality, and fascination, which deeply resonates with the diverse tastes of readers. OBOZ.UA has told you about 5 great books by contemporary Ukrainian authors that every lover of literature in different genres should read.
"Look into My Dreams" by Max Kidruk - mysticism and techno-thriller
Max Kidruk, a Ukrainian writer with a technical background and extensive travel experience, has captivated critics and readers alike with his mystery novels, thrillers, and science fiction.
"Look into My Dreams is the third techno-thriller by this writer, published in 2016. It is a fascinating story in which five-year-old Theo experiences clinical death during surgery. As the protagonist's father observes changes in his son's behavior, in his dreams he encounters an eerie force that increasingly manifests itself in reality, leaving readers in suspense.
"Pampukha" by Alevtina Shavlach - a teenage novel
Alevtina Shavlach, an experienced writer, artist, and former teacher at a children's art school, skillfully delves into such genres as psychological thrillers, dark fantasy, and eerie fairy tales. In her teenage novel Pampukha, the author delicately touches upon such topics as eating disorders, school bullying, and the gap in communication between boys and adults.
The story revolves around Gani, a kind but timid schoolgirl who faces merciless bullying because of her curvy figure. Readers witness the protagonist's resilience and growth as she learns to overcome these challenges, making this an important read for teens and their parents.
"I See You Are Interested in Darkness" by Ilarion Pavliuk - a psychological detective story
Ilarion Pavliuk, a Ukrainian writer, journalist, and ATO veteran, is a skillful writer of thriller, detective, and mystery stories. This book is a journey of a criminal psychologist investigating the disappearance of a young girl from a small village.
As he unravels the mystery, he encounters both the traps set by a serial killer and the callousness that permeates the villagers. This 660-page novel captivates readers from the beginning to the last page.
"Daughter" by Tamara Horykhy Zernya is an adventure war novel
Tamara Duda, who writes under the pseudonym Tamara Horikha Zernya, is originally from Kyiv and has served as a volunteer in the war-torn Donbas. Her debut novel, Dotsia, which won the prestigious BBC Book of the Year award, tells the story of the beginning of the war in this territory.
The book recounts the experience of a young woman who came to Donetsk, made friends, started a business, survived the occupation, lost loved ones, and experienced grief and love in the midst of turmoil. With her rich narration, Zernya creates a story that evokes deep emotions, making it impossible to read without being moved.
"Good News from the Aral Sea" by Irena Karpa - a novel about love
Irena Karpa, a writer, TV presenter, and employee of the Ukrainian Embassy in France, perfectly weaves her experience of living in Paris into this novel. Set in the City of Lights, the book introduces readers to four Ukrainian women who have immigrated to France, each with a unique past and reasons for their move.
Despite all their imperfections, these characters emerge as real figures who overcome the difficulties of love, finding a livelihood, and living in a bustling metropolis. Readers are fully immersed in the emotions and nuances of the story, although they are faced with profanity and intimate scenes.
