Mikhail Shishkin is a Russian writer whose prose is lauded for its unique stylistic brilliance. His language, described as 'wonderfully lucid and concise,' reaches back to the tradition of Pushkin while fearlessly exploring universal themes such as death, resurrection, and love. Shishkin's narratives often delve into universal human experiences, drawing inspiration from his admiration for giants like Tolstoy, Chekhov, and Bunin, who instilled in him artistic uncompromisingness, humanity, and the courage to be naive. His works, while influenced by the classics, resonate with a fresh and original voice.
This debut novel introduces readers to the work of Russia's leading contemporary author, now available in English for the first time. It promises a unique perspective and rich storytelling that reflects the complexities of modern Russian life and culture. The narrative explores profound themes and character dynamics, showcasing the author's distinctive voice and literary prowess.
A passionate, eye-opening account of a state entangled in a complex and bloody past, as well as a love letter to a conflicted country.
The first short story collection by the greatest contemporary Russian writer, Mikhail Shishkin, spanning his entire writing career, 1993-2013.
Picture two people, young and in love. Picture them being separated from one another. Picture them keeping their love alive through letters. So far, so simple. Now imagine they've not just been separated geographically, but also historically. Imagine that their love and letters now defy time and place, life and death. By now you realize that this novel is unique. And, when you learn how it has made Russian literary-prize history, and has to-date been sold in twenty-two languages, you begin to sense just how unique…
Day after day the Russian asylum-seekers sit across from the interpreter and Peter - the Swiss officers who guard the gates to paradise - and tell of the atrocities they've suffered, or that they've invented, or heard from someone else. These stories of escape, war, and violence intermingle with the interpreter's own reading: a history of an ancient Persian war; letters sent to his son Nebuchadnezzasaurus,' ruler of a distant, imaginary childhood empire; and the diaries of a Russian singer who lived through Russia's wars and revolutions.'