Constellation of Vital Phenomena, A
Marra, AnthonyWhen Havaa's father is arrested by Russian soldiers, Akhmed, a neighbour and friend, unexpectedly determines that the little girl will be safest in the care of a locally based Russian doctor. In return, he will assist Sonja Rabina in her attempts to keep an abandoned Chechen hospital functioning. Set over a five day period in 2004 and with flashbacks to preceding events, this complex story is a microcosm of the recent history of Chechnya in all its tragedy and violence.
For all that it graphically explores the themes of trust and betrayal and the fine line between victim and perpetrator, it is surprisingly a novel of hope.
Comments from Groups
A fantastic book! It is a moving picture of the civil war in Chechnya - and of all civil war. It is brilliantly constructed; a demanding and satisfying read that deals with the dark side of humanity but also shows the best parts of human nature. Hamilton 029 Not all of the group enjoyed this book. Well written but can be hard-going in places because of the subject matter. Whiritoa 001 It is a long and challenging book, but persevering to the end meant that all the threads of the story-line and time jumps came together like the explanation of a thriller. It's a grim story - about terrible situations happening in contrast to our own comfortable lives, where distance means we don't often pay enough attention to these crises. Auckland 285 Mixed reactions, some loved it, some only read half of it. It generated lots of discussion, and we were all impressed with the amount of research the author must have done. Well written, and an interesting look at a part of recent history. Auckland 285 This book provoked a very interesting discussion. Educational too, as we consulted maps, and atlases as well as the internet. Our group was I think, intrigued by the book, and would read more by this author. Wellington 142
Pages
403
403
Year
2013
2013
Reviews
23-09-2022
The entire group found the story to be harrowing and difficult to read. The 50% of the group that persevered and finished the book were rewarded with a tightly woven, informative, and completed story. The forward information about how long the survivors lived and what they achieved seemed to even out some of the horror.
23-09-2022
Most did not finish this book. Some found it difficult to get into, and others found it a long read. Those that did finish it enjoyed it immensely.
23-09-2022
A good book, memorable. Even using humour the subject was so bleak that you couldn't say it was 'enjoyable'. We all agreed it was worthwhile reading, but we want to follow it up with a light hearted book.
18-12-2020
Intelligent and moving. Some of us found it rather confusing with the switching back and forth in time. But all agreed it is an amazing 'first' novel, and will become a classic of our time.
11-11-2020
A challenging read, but worthwhile. We thought the writing style excellent with beautifully drawn characters. We were all moved to find out more about Chechnya - such a sad, sad history. Recommended, but not a relaxing read!
02-09-2020
Such a tough read that 3 members abandoned it. Others, while agreeing, thought the story was brilliantly executed by the author.
27-07-2020
Gruelling read. Well-written. Some didn't finish as too horrific. Enlightening on the Chechen wars.
23-03-2020
Polarising book! Several didn't complete reading it. 2 people loved it but found the content too detailed and difficult to follow the Chechen history.
23-03-2020
Only five people read the book, so not much of a discussion. Beautifully written book.