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There are currently 23 member reviews
for The Invisible Life of Ivan Isaenko
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Norman G. (Washougal, WA)
Thoroughly Satisfying
No critique, no comments, just an excellent, well-developed story that covers all the points leaving the reader feeling the time has been well-spent with original characters in a unique setting. Read the book and enjoy.
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Jean N. (New Richmond, OH)
The Real Live of Ivan
This was an unusual book, unlike any that I have ever read. It is the story of a young man with catastrophic birth defects, who has spent his entire 17 year life in a Russian hospital. Although Ivan's medical situation was so devastating and the hospital setting was grim, Ivan's remarkable spirit gave his life hope.
Ivan's limited life at the hospital was greatly expanded by his love of reading. Then Polina arrived and Ivan found love.
I felt this book read like a memoir rather than fiction. I will never forget Ivan for being determined, adventurous, intelligent, witty and loving. Both the characters and the setting were very real to me.
I recommend with book with the disclaimer that there are some graphic sex scenes that might be offensive.
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Mary A. (Lake Nebagamon, WI)
A Book I will read more then once
The "Invisible Life of Ivan Isaenko" is a complex multi faceted story with an unique story structure. At times, it can be very brash then the next sentence be full of wisdom and philosophical. Ivan will not give up no matter his severe limitations. A very informative read that is teaching, tough, teary and tender.
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Judy B. (Santa Fe, NM)
Ivan, Ivan!
This is not the type of book I usually read, but after the first two pages I could not put it down! I finished the book in two days; it was a sweet, sad story. Ivan has been an inmate in a children's hospital in Russia all of his life because he was born with only nubs for feet, one arm with three fingers; he has no recollection of a mother or father; he survives in a wheelchair; and he is very smart! He is a Class A snoop! And then Polina arrives!! She has cancer, but they form an unstoppable duo! It is at once a beautiful and sad story, but immensely worth reading and I found myself cheering them on. You will, too! Don't put down the book until you are finished!!!!
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Beth M. (New York, NY)
A wonderful, unique love story with so much heart
This story reads like a memoir. Many times I felt like Ivan was a real person. He's so smart, and honest and has so much passion and determination. Given his very limited life and the constraints of his deformities, he's truly a wonder. He ponders people and situations deeply and his voice is clear and heartbreaking. He is irresistible and his relationship with Polina is somehow magical. The characters are so strongly drawn and the humanity is achingly present. I highly recommend this strange and wonderful book.
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Maribeth R. (Indianapolis, IN)
Compelling and Contradictory
Don't ever assume that the presence of a deformed body indicates that the soul within doesn't have a story to be told.
I read this book within two days after receiving it, but it has taken me a long time to put my thoughts to paper. Can a story be tragic and funny, hopeful amid despair, and loving where only disrespect seems to pave the halls of the Belarus Hospital? Those are just some of the contradictions that the reader may feel when trying to make sense of the life of Ivan Isaenko. The writer skillfully conveys the dismal conditions of the institutions where care was provided for the children born after Chernobyl. Hidden away and lacking the nurturing necessary for emotional survival, most children such as Ivan were more likely to falter rather than thrive. The contradiction that was most difficult to understand was, in such a dreadful place, lacking stimulation and nurturing, how could anyone grow with curiosity and intelligence, and a passion for reading such as Ivan displayed?
This is a worthwhile read, but not a book for those who are squeamish or who are seeking a feel good book. It is worthwhile because it affirms that everyone DESERVES to be treated with respect and care, and that no one should be judged by physical appearance alone.
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Marci G. (Sicklerville, NJ)
Ambivalent
I have delayed writing this review. I wanted to like this book. Very well written but just fell flat for me. Poor timing ? I may revisit.
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