Death and the Penguin : A BBC Two Between the Covers Pick
(Author) Andrey KurkovViktor is an aspiring writer with only Misha, his pet penguin, for company. Although he would prefer to write short stories, he earns a living composing obituaries for a newspaper. He longs to see his work published, yet the subjects of his obituaries continue to cling to life. But when he opens the newspaper to see his work in print for the first time, his pride swiftly turns to terror. He and Misha have been drawn into a trap from which there appears to be no escape.
Andrey Kurkov
Andrey Kurkov is a Ukrainian novelist known for his darkly humorous and satirical works that often explore themes of corruption, disillusionment, and political unrest. His most notable work is "Death and the Penguin," which follows the misadventures of a struggling writer and his pet penguin in post-Soviet Ukraine.
Kurkov's writing style is characterized by its dry wit, understated humor, and keen observations of the human condition. He is praised for his ability to blend elements of absurdity with poignant social commentary, creating a unique and compelling narrative voice.
Through his works, Kurkov has made significant contributions to contemporary Ukrainian literature, shedding light on the complexities of life in a post-Soviet society and challenging conventional notions of identity, power, and morality. His works have been translated into multiple languages and have garnered international acclaim for their insight and originality.