When the Whales Leave
- 144 pages
- 6 hours of reading
[Yuri Rytkheu's] deep emotional attachment to this landscape of ice (today melting away under global warming forces) makes every sentence seem a poetic revelation. -ANNIE PROULX
Juri Sergejewitsch Rytcheu Book order
March 8, 1930 – May 14, 2008
Yuri Rytkheu is recognized as the father of Chukchi literature. By writing in both his native tongue and Russian, he bridged his cultural heritage with a wider literary world. His work carried the weight of articulating his people's stories, and his unique voice conveys the richness and complexity of indigenous traditions.
- 2020
- 2011
The Chukchi Bible
- 354 pages
- 13 hours of reading
The collection immerses readers in the rich mythology and history of the Chukchi people, featuring vibrant characters such as Nau, the mother of humanity, and her half-whale husband, Rau. It also highlights Rytkheu's grandfather, an adventurous whaler and the last shaman of Uelen. Through vivid prose, the narrative explores themes of conflict, human drama, and humor, while traversing the breathtaking Arctic landscapes. This work serves as both a captivating tale and a poignant reflection on cultural resilience.