A damaged recluse and a feisty teenager join forces to find meaning in a world beset by banality and indifference. Both have reasons for failing to connect with society but come to the understanding that even the darkness within ourselves may be the source of light.
This beautifully rendered story of a profound friendship pursued through good times and bad is a literary treasure. Populated by only two characters it is a joy to read and food for the soul. This translation is pure pleasure.
The complex and sometimes confusing state of Russian politics and culture is at the heart of this tale of desire, idealism and reality on a collision course. Profoundly revelatory narrative limns the dark aspects of life in this volatile nation.
Imagine all your middle-school nightmares made manifest. Add to that an eerie paranormal aspect that elevates the whole to the maximum level and you have this wildly creative and engaging tale of the middle school from hell.