Set in two different villages in the Carpathian Mountains of Ukraine where the Hutsuls, an indigenous population lives, this novel is told is two stories which are in reverse chronological order beginning with the 1960s and ending in the 30s & 40s. The first story tells of “Sweet” Darusya, a mute woman, who is called “sweet' by the locals because of her eccentric behaviors. The second story tells the story of the child Darusya and her parents during wartime, and the subsequent Soviet occupation.

This is a somewhat difficult, but worthy book. I read the introduction at least three different times. And I had some difficultly orientating myself at first as the narrative reminded me much of a folk tale and there were few details that tied the narrative to a 1960s I was familiar with (at one point there was mention of a bus…). Eventually, I adapted.

It should be noted that the second story has some difficult content that one might wish to turn away from, but should not (thinking back as I write this review, I am reminded of Susan Sontag’s small book Regarding the Pain of Others). I had to “work” a bit harder with this book,, but ultimately, I found the story powerful and haunting, especially given current events.

I would read more of this author's work.... ( )