Grey Bees by Andrey Kurkov is a powerful novel set in the war-torn Donbas region, where the conflict between Ukraine and separatist forces shapes everyday life. The protagonist, Sergey Sergeyich, a beekeeper, lives in the "grey zone," a neutral area between warring sides. Despite the constant tension and danger, Sergey finds solace and purpose in caring for his bees. The story explores themes of war, human resilience, and the search for meaning in a world overshadowed by conflict.
I hope this translation captures the essence of the novel!