The Silver Bone

In The Silver Bone, a young orphan navigates a treacherous world of intrigue and danger during the Russian Revolution, uncovering secrets that could change his fate.

Set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Russian Revolution, The Silver Bone introduces readers to a world where trust is scarce and danger lurks around every corner. The story unfolds in Kyiv during 1919, a time when the Soviets are firmly in control, yet the threat of the White armies looms ominously from the West. Amidst this chaos, we meet young Samson Kolechko, who faces unimaginable loss when his father is brutally murdered. In a twist of fate, his father saves him from a Cossack's saber, leaving him with a scar and a collection of abacuses as his only inheritance.

As Samson navigates his new reality as an orphan, his life takes a dramatic turn when two Red Army soldiers requisition his flat. Unbeknownst to them, Samson possesses an uncanny ability to overhear their secretive plans. This newfound skill thrusts him into a perilous world of murder and intrigue, where every decision could either lead to his salvation or his demise. The narrative is infused with Andrey Kurkov's signature humor and touches of magical realism, creating a captivating atmosphere that draws readers deeper into the historical context.

The Silver Bone not only weaves a thrilling tale of survival and resistance but also pays homage to the real-life archives of crime enforcement in Kyiv. Translated by Boris Dralyuk, this novel promises to engage readers with its rich historical detail and compelling characters, making it a standout addition to the genre of historical mysteries.