Happy Moscow by Andrey Platonov
"Happy Moscow" is a satirical novel set in the Soviet Union during the height of Stalinist rule, following the life of a young woman, Moscow Chestnova, who is named after the capital city. Despite the harsh realities of life under an authoritarian regime, she maintains a positive and optimistic outlook, symbolizing the Soviet Union's propaganda that promoted an image of a happy and prosperous society. The novel, through its characters and their experiences, explores the paradoxes and contradictions of the Soviet society, challenging the official narrative of happiness and prosperity.
The 2608th greatest book of all time
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This book is on the following lists:
- 68th on 100 Best Novels, in Translation, Since 1900 (CounterPunch)
- The Bigger Read List (English PEN)