Precursor

"Hryhoriy Skovoroda (1722-1794) was a Ukrainian freedom-loving patriot, an eighteenth-century philosopher who teased and taunted the rich and powerful. <...> Shevchuk's wise and charming novel, first published in 1969, is <...> a standard text now in Ukrainian schools". Robert Blaisdell, Russian Life

"âSkovoroda is an admirable, but difficult character, those who know him very understandably find it almost impossible to follow the path he takes through life. There's a warmth to the novel that comes âfrom the author's deep love for his country which shines through in his descriptions of Ukraine's countryside and cities. There are also lovely descriptions of traditional folk songs, the songs Skovoroda is moved to compose himself, and plenty of pungent Ukrainian sayings to spice things up." Gallimaufry Book Studio

"Based on fact, this is historical fiction at its best and makes a compelling read. [T]he book is a wonderful portrait of a little-known but fascinating figure, and it deserves a wide readership." Mandy Jenkinson, Historical Novel Society

"You could almost say that Ukraine is one of the main characters, and the way in which it is depicted is often bucolic: at its best, a landscape of bees, guelder roses, cherry blossom, flute music, beautiful cities, and hospitable people who frequently burst into song." Darcy Hurford, RivetingReview