The Book Heroes, Antiheroes, and Not-So-Heroes (Magura) | Vitaliy Zapeka

The book “Heroes, Antiheroes and Not Quite Heroes” by Vitalii Zapeka is more than just a war novel; it is a vivid, witty, and deeply moving military tragicomedy based on real events, most of which the author experienced personally. Satirical style and irony intertwine with the bitter truth of wartime routine, politics, corruption, love, and genuine male friendship. The main character, volunteer Shramko, goes through a series of adventures—sometimes humorous, sometimes dramatic, and often absurd—exactly the kind of situations familiar to many Ukrainian soldiers.

Zapeka masterfully demonstrates that war is not only about heroism and pathos, but also about absurdity, bureaucracy, everyday hardships, and difficult choices faced by ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances. The author neither idealizes the protagonist nor himself, openly admitting that all the ridiculous situations encountered by the main character are drawn from his own experiences, while the most useful and heroic deeds belong to his comrades-in-arms. This self-irony makes the narrative exceptionally vivid and authentic.

“Heroes, Antiheroes and Not Quite Heroes” became the winner of the international “Warrior of Light” literary award, received a theatrical adaptation at the Dnipro Academic Theatre, and was translated and published in English in Canada. This is a book capable of provoking laughter, anger, sadness, and deep reflection on the reality of Ukrainian defenders. Readers will both laugh and contemplate the stereotypes and myths exposed about war, the Ukrainian character, the state, and its people.

This novel is an ideal gift for military personnel, their families, volunteers, and everyone who values honesty, irony, and real life—which is often tragicomic but always meaningful.

“Heroes, Antiheroes and Not Quite Heroes” is a sincere, unembellished, and candid account of the side of war that rarely appears in official reports. It is a book for those ready to see the true face of Ukrainian defenders and experience the touching power of humor and courage in the most absurd circumstances. Order from ABRAMS — choose books that shape the true spirit of the Ukrainian people.