A House with Roosters: What Was Hushed Up in My Family

"A House with Roosters: What Was Hushed Up in My Family" is a poignant memoir by Ukrainian author Viktoria Belym, delving into the concealed histories of her family against the backdrop of Ukraine's tumultuous 20th century. Born and raised in Kyiv, Belym's narrative intertwines personal recollections with the broader historical context of her homeland. The memoir centers on the enigmatic disappearance of her great-grandfather, Nikodim, who vanished in the 1930s during the struggle for an independent Ukraine. Despite his significant role, his memory was shrouded in silence within the family. Determined to uncover the truth, Belym embarks on a journey that leads her to the "House with Roosters, " a former KGB headquarters in the heart of Poltava. This work is not merely a personal account but a collective exploration of memory, fear, and love that transcends time and death. It offers readers an intimate glimpse into the complexities of Ukrainian history and the enduring impact of silence and repression. Ideal for readers interested in Ukrainian history, family dynamics, and the interplay between personal and collective memory, this memoir provides both emotional depth and historical insight. Belym's evocative storytelling invites readers to reflect on the importance of acknowledging and confronting the past to heal and understand the present.