I received this book from the publisher for free in exchange for an honest review.
It’s fascinating to read about the ways people react and adapt, and how war works in our modern society where we all have access to the internet. Propaganda is spread in both directions, and people become consumed by watching the news while others avoid it entirely, not wanting to affect their mental health, adopting the principal, “ignorance is bliss.” While horrible atrocities are being committed, everyone bands together against the common enemy and shows a kindness to each other that you would never see normally.
The beginning of this book is a bit dry as it reads like a history textbook, but it provides some much needed context for the rest of the story, especially if it is read years in the future when the war is over and no longer frequently talked and posted about.
The professor’s story needed better translation and editing as it was near-incomprehensible at times, but the other stories were heartbreaking and engaging snapshots of how quickly and dramatically war changes life. There’s eighteen personal stories from Ukraine survivors, a variety of perspectives which when put together, paint a comprehensive image of life in Ukraine before and during the war.
If you want to donate to support the cause, there is a guide on legitimate donation sources, which is helpful as many you see on social media are duplicitous. I hope this dreadful war ends soon and I’m glad these stories are being told.