In the early 1960s, young journalist Ryszard Kapuscinski embarked on a journey through the remote corners of Poland, capturing the essence of a nation caught between its Communist past and an uncertain future. His vivid portraits, now translated into English for the first time, reveal a land as enigmatic as the distant countries he reported on. From forgotten villages to collective farms, Kapuscinski delves into the lives of those who never saw the promised rise in living standards, the misfits, the land-bound, and the dreamers yearning for escape.

Why You Should Read?

• Offers a unique glimpse into post-Stalinist Poland, blending literary reportage with personal insight.
• Captures the struggles and dreams of individuals in a country on the brink of modernity.
• Features previously untranslated works, providing fresh perspectives on Kapuscinski’s early career.
• Appeals to readers interested in history, culture, and the human condition.