: Never Say War: Life Inside Russia - Åsne Seierstad

Never Say War: Life Inside Russia

(Author: Åsne Seierstad | Translator: Siân Mackie)

An astonishing, unprecedented, behind-the-scenes portrait of Putin's Russia at war, from Åsne Seierstad, internationally acclaimed author of 'The Bookseller of Kabul' and 'The Afghans'.

While Putin’s Russia silences dissent, restricts foreign journalism, and criminalizes even using the word "war" to describe its invasion of Ukraine, what does daily life actually feel like on the inside for ordinary citizens?

Award-winning investigative journalist Åsne Seierstad explores this question through the eye-opening story of Andrey Medvedev, a young Russian soldier who defected from the Wagner Group to seek asylum in Norway. Born just as Putin came to power, Medvedev's life trajectory mirrors the broader transformation of his country. Following his connections, Seierstad gains unprecedented access to a cross-section of Russian society—from teachers and farmers to independent reporters and women left behind by soldiers on the front lines.

Never Say War offers an intimate, novelistic, and deeply humane look into a much-mythologized nation. Combining courageous field reportage with sharp historical context, Seierstad examines how modern Russia came to be and how its people view their country's uncertain future.

Key Highlights:

• Unprecedented Access: Features first-hand reportage and interviews with Russian defectors, soldiers, and everyday citizens.

• Masterclass in Journalism: Written by Åsne Seierstad, acclaimed international journalist and author of The Bookseller of Kabul, The Afghans, and Two Sisters.

• High Critical Acclaim: Hailed as "a major work" by historian Antony Beevor and praised by leading foreign correspondents worldwide.

• Essential Geopolitics: Provides vital context on contemporary Russian society, state propaganda, and human resilience amidst war.