by Rose Tremain
First published 2009
Lev boards a bus bound for Britain, leaving behind his Eastern European homeland and the memories of his deceased wife. His young daughter waits for him back home, along with his friend Rudi, who spends his days dreaming of Western wealth while tending to his old Chevrolet. London promises opportunity but delivers confusion. The British puzzle Lev with their unfriendly streets and exclusive pubs, their fascination with famous people. He must navigate this foreign culture while searching for employment and trying to build a life. The city offers tantalizing prospects: new friendships, romantic possibilities, financial stability, and perhaps a different career path. Yet Lev struggles with the fundamental question of whether he can truly find his place in this strange new world, or if he will remain forever an outsider looking in.
Genres: fiction, literary-fiction, family-life, contemporary
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, new-beginnings
Setting: Britain, Eastern Europe, London
Period: contemporary
384 pages · Unknown Binding · Vintage Digital