Death and the Penguin

In a post-Soviet Ukraine, Viktor, an aspiring writer, finds himself entangled with the mafia after his obituary writing leads to unexpected consequences, with only his pet penguin, Misha, by his side.

Death and the Penguin follows the story of Viktor, an aspiring writer living in Ukraine, who finds himself in a precarious situation. His only companion is Misha, his pet penguin, which adds a touch of whimsy to his otherwise solitary existence. While Viktor dreams of writing short stories, he makes a living by crafting obituaries for a local newspaper. This job, though not his passion, allows him to express his creativity, albeit in a rather morbid way.

As Viktor eagerly anticipates seeing his work published, he is confronted with an unexpected twist. When he finally opens the newspaper to view his first published obituary, his initial pride quickly transforms into dread. He realizes that he and Misha have unwittingly become entangled in a dangerous game involving the mafia. The stakes are high, and the threat of violence looms large, leaving Viktor in a precarious position where survival becomes his primary concern.

Through a blend of dark humor and poignant observations, the novel paints a vivid picture of post-Soviet life, exploring themes of isolation and the absurdity of existence. Viktor's journey, alongside his quirky companion, not only highlights the absurdities of his situation but also serves as a commentary on the human condition in a world fraught with danger. Ultimately, Death and the Penguin is a tragicomic tale that captivates readers with its unique premise and engaging narrative.