Book Review

Understanding Ukraine through historical and cultural narratives

Abstract

Living the Independence Dream: Ukraine and Ukrainians in Contemporary Socio-Political Context. (2024). Edited by Lada Kolomiyets. Vernon Press, Series in Social Equality and Justice. 366 pp. ISBN 978-1-64889-861-7 (hardback). Price: $114 / £91 / €106.

The reviewed book, edited by Lada Kolomiyets, delivers a comprehensive, off-beat and thought-provoking illumination of Ukraine as a living dream. A prolific scholar, skilful lecturer, and gifted translator, Professor Kolomiyets successfully organised diverse and, at first sight, unconnected works into three sections: Historical Narratives, Language, and Cultural Policy; Philosophy, Popular Culture, Literature; and Memoirs and Reflections. In the course of reading, however, it becomes obvious that the twelve chapters collectively articulate the enduring nature of the centuries-long opposition between Ukraine and Russia. Each chapter, therefore, seems directly or indirectly linked to Ukraine’s resistance to Russian claims on its sovereignty. In sum, the book refuses to settle for mere observation, instead offering a vibrant kaleidoscope of perspectives on Ukraine’s life and ongoing transformation. With intellectual daring and creative flair, the volume curated by Lada Kolomiyets invites readers to witness Ukraine not as a static subject, but as a living, dreaming nation in the act of becoming. Each chapter here captivates, challenges, and enlightens. The result is a vivid story that honours both the pain and the resilience of Ukraine, illuminating its unbroken spirit amid adversity. By bringing together contributions from leading Ukrainian, North American, and European scholars, Lada Kolomiyets profoundly internalises vital and timely contributions to Ukrainian and East Slavonic Studies. Although Ukraine has drawn more attention today through the sad chapter in her history, the book rediscovers Ukraine and its noble people for a global audience, broadening and deepening the scope of their knowledge about the country of dignified history, old democracy, Christian values, beautiful language, multinational culture, rich philosophy, and courageous leaders.