Unknown Soldiers
Unknown Soldiers by Väinö Linna is a significant work published by Penguin Books, Limited on April 28, 2016. This UK edition spans 480 pages and is presented in English. The narrative follows a group of machine-gunners during the Second World War, capturing their experiences as they navigate the complexities of combat, camaraderie, and survival in Finland’s challenging landscapes.
Readers will find a raw and unfiltered portrayal of war, as the characters engage in banter, confront their fears, and endure the harsh realities of battle. The book explores themes of brotherhood and resilience, reflecting the struggles faced by soldiers in the swamps and forests. As they grapple with both the absurdity and terror of their situation, Unknown Soldiers offers a poignant insight into the human condition amidst the chaos of conflict.
Official synopsis Publisher
‘There they stood, bumbling into lines with a bit of difficulty: Mother Finland’s chosen sacrifice to world history’
Unknown Soldiers follows the fates of a ramshackle troupe of machine-gunners in the Second World War, as they argue, joke, swear, cadge a loaf of bread or a cigarette, combat both boredom and horror in the swamps and pine forests – and discover that war will make or break them. One of Finland’s best-loved books, this gritty and unromantic depiction of battle honours the dogged determination of a country and the bonds of brotherhood forged between men at war, as they fight for their lives.
‘A rediscovered classic… profound and enriching … Unknown Soldiers still has the power to shock’ Herald
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