Abandon: Love and Communism in Central Asia

by David Gallagher

Welcome to Kyrgyzstan, a country of glaring contrasts. It is Muslim, but alcoholic. It is mountainous spirituality and nomadic tradition, but governed by rigid Communist rhetoric. It is distrusting of outside influences, but gripped by a worship of all things foreign. Set on the eve of this small Central Asian republic's independence from Soviet Russia, "Abandon" relates the story of two foundlings as they struggle to find their own voices. Torn between the ancient beliefs of their people and the current sluggish movement toward democracy, Tashtan and Kerez must decide how much they value their freedom. Simultaneously occuring in the past and present, in the majestic Ala-Too mountains and its valley villages, "Abandon" illustrates a world in which both bride stealing and proletariat equality are taken for granted. In his debut novel Dave Gallagher uses a cast of complex characters to introduce the western world to the humanity and heartbreak of the Silk Road. His remarkable insight and understanding of the Kyrgyz make this exotic land accessible and endearing.

120 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2002

Reviews

[Joel Kleehammer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quite outstanding. I lived in Kyrgyzstan for two years over a decade ago. Abandon captures the spirit of the Kyrgyz people.

In good news, the Party no longer has any power, and the young women are bride napped at a very low rate. In fact, it's common for a young couple to stage a bride napping to elope. In bad news, there are still many corrupt leaders looking for wealth and prestige. Freedom and democracy, real or perceived, have their own demands but are no less stifling.