Days in the Caucasus

‘We all know families that are poor but ‘respectable’. Mine, in contrast, was extremely rich but not ‘respectable’ at all…’

Written in 1945 and never published in English until now, this is a warm, witty, moving account of a childhood spent in Azerbaijan. Part historical travelogue, part coming-of-age story it’s such a delightful read. Terrible events are unfolding in history but Banine brings a gossipy, wry tone that makes this just a pleasure to read.