ALPINE BALLAD

Vasil Bykau, trans. Mikalai Khilo (Glagoslav)

What a pure introduction to Belarusian author Vasil Bykau. The lyrically evocative, soul-searing Alpine Ballad is much more intimate than his other works but no less unsparing and wrenching. A new translation into English, it’s his love letter to humanity. Set during the latter part of World War II, it follows two POW camp escapees, Belarusian Ivan and Italian Giulia who are brought together fleeing across the Austrian Alps. We follow these determined, brave young adults from different worlds while they grow close and fight and claw to survive their perilous journey. Much more than just an adventure/romance, Bykau brings to life two protagonists who will linger on long after you close the book. If you want to have no inkling of their fate beforehand, skip the back cover blurb. 

words Rhonda Lee Reali

Price: £17. Info: www.glagoslav.com