Book cover of Ukraine: The Forging of a Nation

Book description

'Both pioneering and fundamental. This is the essential history of Ukraine, from one of the greatest Ukrainian thinkers and scholars.'
Timothy Snyder #1 New York Times and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author of On Tyranny

'Ukrainian historian Yaroslav Hrytsak's vivid, sweeping book lays bare the enduring pride that persuaded his…

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Why read it?

1 author picked Ukraine as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I think Hrytsak’s book–which was a bestseller in Ukraine when it first appeared–is the best single-volume history of Ukraine available in English. I heard Hrytsak speak in Lviv, Ukraine, in 2011, where he teaches at the Ukrainian Catholic University, and was taken by his ability to mix the broad sweep of history with telling anecdotes.

This book showcases Hrytsak’s abilities and reveals how Ukraine emerged over the centuries, how Ukrainian identities developed, and how Ukrainians have created a civic nation since communism’s collapse.

I particularly like his “interludes,” in which Hrytsak breaks up the chronological narrative with short essays about…

If you love Ukraine...

Ad

Book cover of Aggressor

Aggressor by FX Holden,

It is April 1st, 2038. Day 60 of China's blockade of the rebel island of Taiwan.

The US government has agreed to provide Taiwan with a weapons system so advanced that it can disrupt the balance of power in the region. But what pilot would be crazy enough to run…

Want books like Ukraine?

Our community of 12,000+ authors has personally recommended 100 books like Ukraine.

Browse books like Ukraine

Book cover of In the Midst of Civilized Europe: The Pogroms of 1918-1921 and the Onset of the Holocaust
Book cover of Children of Rus': Right-Bank Ukraine and the Invention of a Russian Nation
Book cover of The Last Empire: The Final Days of the Soviet Union

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,276

readers submitted
so far, will you?

Ad

📚 If you like Ukraine, you might also like...

Book cover of My Book Boyfriend

My Book Boyfriend by Kathy Strobos,

Lily loves her community garden. Rupert wants to bulldoze it. When feelings grow, will they blossom or turn to rubble?

"It literally had everything! - Bookworm Characters - Humor - Banter - Swoon-worthy lines."  - Book Reviewer.

Book cover of Everyday Medical Miracles: True Stories from the Frontlines in Women’s Health Care

Everyday Medical Miracles by Joseph S. Sanfilippo (editor),

Frontiers of Women from the healthcare perspective. A compilation of 60 true short stories written by an extensive array of healthcare providers, physicians, and advanced practice providers.

All designed to give you, the reader, a glimpse into the day-to-day activities of all of us who provide your health care. Come…

5 book lists we think you will like!