Pirin Planina- George Topîrceanu

Pirin Planina by George Topîrceanu is an unconventional memoir that shows a glimpse into the hardships of Romanian soldiers captured by the Bulgarian army after the Battle of Turtucaia in World War I. It’s enhanced with 15 charcoal illustrations created by Olga Rogozenco, an artist from Chisinau, Moldova.

What makes the story so vivid is Topîrceanu's style which masterfully captures the human side of war, aside from any political implications. He shows the daily struggles of the soldiers, not shying away from the physical and emotional toll of captivity. He is able to make his readers feel a wide range of emotions, from humor and ridiculous events to tragic, dark moments, such as abuse, starvation, and death.

The historical significance of the story can’t be left aside, as the author’s experiences are a testament to human resilience. They are brought to life through beautiful descriptions and expressive dialogues, helping the readers immerse themselves in the story, feeling like they’re right there with the soldiers. The emotional depth of the story is one of a kind.

Pirin Planina is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of World War I or the human side of war. It is a powerful and moving memoir that will leave a lasting impression on the reader. Highly recommended.

• Publisher: ‎ Center for Romanian Studies (March 28, 2023)

• Language: ‎ English

• Hardcover: ‎ 220 pages

• ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1592111497