Ukraine

Cultures of the World

by Volodymyr Bassis, Elizabeth Berg

Describes how the culture of Ukraine is reflected in its many festivals, including Yumoryna, Ivana Kupala, and Old New Year.

Genres: Nonfiction

32 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Leah]

Juvenile NF overview of the country, read following *I Will Die in a Foreign Land.*

As I had hoped it would, this book cleared up some of the things I found so puzzling about *I Will Die.* There were a lot of political undertones and subtext I didn’t understand that were somewhat explained in this book. I also appreciated getting a better feel for the culture, history, and people of that country.

[Evgeniya]

I found this book in my city library. I took, read. I see a lot of updates; I see some parts are not completely right. Some words are not written correctly. It's Kyiv, not kiev. Books mention national clothing as so simple, but it's ok. It will be better to see photos of people wearing costumes from different regions , not like the photo in the book, p. 71. After all, I m glad this book exists. 

[Lynn]

Great cultural guide for YA readers. Contains good information on even more recent problems with Crimea and Russia. Contains history and important cultural information.

[Mangamaximis]

Great guide book that hits every aspect of the culture. As well as offering links to move information without skimping on information in the actual book.

[Elizabeth StClair]

This is a good, entertaining book that outlines the history of Ukraine. However, being published in 1997, it leaves many gaps in the country's story and, at some points, is very ironic. Take the opening paragraphs for example.

"The history of Ukraine is one of continuous struggle for independence and the right to exist. In 1991, this dream, nursed for centuries, finally became reality. Today, Ukraine is politically independent, an equal member of the world's commonwealth of states, and doing its best to build a democratic society ..... Ukraine will undoubtedly become one of the most prosperous countries of the 21st century."

Considering the current situation in Ukraine, I find this paragraph sadly wrong. I hope that one day this paragraph will ring true for this promising nation.