Portraits of Ukraine: A Nation at War

by Gregory W. Slayton, Sergei Ivashenko, MATTHEW S. JAMES (Contributor)

Portraits of Ukraine A Nation At War is a new book providing readers a comprehensive analysis into the realities of the brutal 2022 Russian invasion within the context of Ukraine’s people, history, arts, culture, traditions, and geography. For more information, check out the official book website at PortraitsOfUkraine dot org.

280 pages, Hardcover

Published November 30, 2024

About the author

Gregory W. Slayton served as the US Ambassador to Bermuda under Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama. His diplomatic experience led him to write "Four Centuries of Friendship," a book celebrating the 400-year history of US-Bermuda relations, and now "Portraits of Ukraine A Nation at War," a book presenting modern Ukraine in the context of its history, culture, politics, faith traditions, and people. An expert at bringing people together, he is the author of the marriage and parenting advice books "Be a Better Dad Today," "Be the Best Mom You Can be," and "Maximum Marriage." A husband and father of four children, Ambassador Slayton has decades of experience cultivating strong family ties in addition to diplomatic relations. Follow us on our social media pages and official website portraitsofukraine dot org

Reviews

[Steven]

If you're at all interested in Ukraine and what's happening in this crucial region of the world, Portraits of Ukraine provides a terrific analysis of its history, politics and people. Lots of striking photos kept my interest since Ukraine has a complicated past that can be difficult to digest. Loved the chapter on the modern history of Ukraine because it details how we've come to the tragedy we are experiencing with Putin's Russia. On the other hand, there were fun QR codes that popped up as the authors described decorating Easter eggs, dancing the hopak, and even making borscht!

[Christopher D.]

Most Americans know about Ukraine only from snippets in the news. Portraits of Ukraine offers a much deeper analysis of Ukraine's current war with Russia, in the context of its rich and fascinating history. With beautifully curated photos, and skillful prose Portraits of Ukraine reveals the story of a nation - its people, its culture, and its current challenge. A masterpiece!

[Jonas Grusnius]

This book truly provides deeper insight into the true nature of Ukraine, away from what recent news has been showing. As well as giving insight into the nation, I found it very interesting and useful to have all of the context provided for why the Russian invasion of Ukraine occurred, as the book acted as a historical analysis piece.
Whilst the book served well as source of understanding the history of this nation, what was more powerful to me was the human side illustrated, which seems to often be missing from the news. In particular, I very much enjoyed the chapter on "Voices of Ukraine," as it demonstrates the human nature of strength, resilience and morality of the Ukrainian people.
Finally, the QR codes throughout the book helped to further emphasise the humanity of Ukraine, showing us snippets of the rich cultural history of this nation at war!

[Kathleen Schwab]

Portraits of Ukraine: A Nation at War is a high-quality coffee table book with illustrations ranging from classic paintings to photo journalism. The text provides a strong historical background for an area of the world many Americans know little about, and the context for the Russian invasion is particularly well done. Coverage of the war itself is specific and powerful, while the book does not neglect the larger picture, with passages like this: "In the 21st century, Ukraine has experienced more death and destruction from war than all the nations of North America, South America, East Asia, Austalasia, and Western Europe combined."

[history buff]

I came to this book with very little knowledge of Ukraine and its history. I appreciated its clear narrative, and I have much more understanding into the pivotal role this country is currently playing in our dangerous world. I particularly enjoyed the Voices of Ukraine chapter, which consists of interviews of Ukrainians grappling with the realities of terror and destruction, but choosing to be true to their humanity. The QR codes in the Folk chapter also gave me a flavor of what Ukraine is and what they have created. Highly recommended!

[Vol]

Powerful, honest, and deeply moving.

This book captures Ukraine’s struggle with stunning portraits and heartfelt stories. It goes beyond headlines—highlighting real people, real courage, and the high cost of freedom. Gregory W. Slayton gives voice to a nation under fire while showing the strength and resilience of Ukrainians. Highly recommended for anyone who wants to understand the human side of this war.

[Travel Fan]

Years ago, I unexpectedly found myself in Kyiv. I really loved the people, but I didn’t know much. This book has expanded my knowledge of the country. The stunning photos and the informative captions are helpful in keeping events clear and concise. I can truly recommend purchasing this book, especially on the eve of the third anniversary of the invasion.

[Wes Anderson]

Wonderful book. Doesn't just talk about the current war, but the history and culture of Ukraine. It's good to learn more about a country that is so often in the news. It is well written and researched.