Death and the Penguin
Death and the Penguin
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2002
Book Brief
Beta228
Novel • Fiction
•
Humor•
Russian LiteratureKyiv, Ukraine • 1990s
2002
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Death and the Penguin by Andrey Kurkov, a writer named Viktor lives in post-Soviet Kyiv with his pet penguin, Misha. Viktor writes obituaries for a newspaper, unknowingly entangling himself in dangerous schemes. The story explores themes of isolation and survival as Viktor navigates his precarious world.
Mysterious
Dark
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
22,150 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Andrey Kurkov's Death and the Penguin is lauded for its dark humor and unique narrative, centered around an unusual friendship with a penguin in post-Soviet Ukraine. Critics appreciate the novel's satirical take on existential themes and societal disarray. Some readers, however, find the pacing uneven. Overall, it's a compelling, quirky read with thought-provoking undertones.
Who Should Read Death and the Penguin?
A reader who enjoys Death and the Penguin by Andrey Kurkov likely appreciates dark humor, satirical takes on post-Soviet life, and quirky, existential narratives. Fans of The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov and The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundera would find similar thematic intrigue and philosophical depth.
22,150 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
228
Novel • Fiction
•
Humor•
Russian LiteratureKyiv, Ukraine • 1990s
2002
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!