Black Earth City by Charlotte Hobson
In the farthest reaches of the Russian countryside, in Voronezh, Charlotte Hobson studied during her gap year. As initial hope in the demise of communism gave way to disappointment and uncertainty, her birth occurred at the same time as this society was coming to an end. These emotions are reflected in her disastrous romance with the vodka-sipping Mitya. They also got off to a wild start, believing that anything was possible. Up until the snow thawed in the spring, exposing the dark ground below.
Black Earth City by Charlotte Hobson
Amazon.com
This book chronicles an era of profound developments in Russia that occurred in between the drinking, chaos, love affairs, and parties; it is therefore historically fascinating. Additionally, a particularly unique look at the culture and daily life of several regular Russians living in the small town.
It was fascinating to read this book. It was eye-opening to get to know the protagonist through her journey through what at first glance appeared to be the backwaters of Russia. A year spent in a rural Russian city. What a year it was too—1991—the Soviet Union is disintegrating. Students from various countries coexist in a frenetic atmosphere of adventure, crazy energy, and excitement fueled by vodka. In a wonderful book, Charlotte Hobson delves deeply into this world.
