Genre: Historical Fiction
Author: Hamid Ismailov
Translator: Carol Ermakova
Year published: 2013
TWs: Racism, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse, Alcoholism, Death
Rating: 4/5
Uzbekistan is one of those elusive countries I’ve always been curious about, a place rich in history and culture but not often in the spotlight. When I came across ‘The Underground’ by Uzbek author, Hamid Ismailov, I saw it as a chance to take a peek into this intriguing country, even if the story itself is set in the heart of Moscow. Despite the emotional punch this book packs, Ismailov’s unique storyline makes it a compelling read. So, let’s dive in!
“The metro is my innards: my thoughts, my experiences, my life, my cavities, my arteries.”
Synopsis (spoiler-free, always)
The Underground tells the story of Mbobo, a young boy born in Moscow during the 1980 Olympics. His mother is from Siberia, and his father is an unknown African athlete. Mbobo’s life is filled with hardship—he faces racism daily because of his mixed race and witnesses domestic violence at home. The story is told after Mbobo’s death at the age of twelve, making it a reflection on his short and difficult life.
Each chapter of the book is named after a station in the Moscow Metro, symbolizing different parts of Mbobo’s journey. As he moves from one station to another, we see glimpses of his struggles and small moments of joy. After his mother dies when he is eight, Mbobo becomes an orphan, moving between the homes of his two stepfathers, neither of whom can give him the love and care he needs. The Metro stations, once a familiar part of his life, start to change names as the Soviet Union begins to collapse, adding to his confusion and loss.
“He felt that they saw him as some kind of rare beast, a peculiar, alien creature.”
My Thoughts
I have to admit that that this book was a tough read because it deals with some very serious and painful topics, but Ismailov’s writing and storytelling makes it a book you won’t forget. i loved his use of Moscow’s metro stations as chapter titles to show the different stages of Mbobo’s life, with each station representing a new part of his journey. It was such a It was such a fresh and creative approach! The book is also filled with references to famous Russian writers like Dostoevsky and Tolstoy. As someone who loves Russian literature, it was so much fun finding those little easter eggs.
The portrayal of racism in the book is especially strong. Mbobo faces cruel treatment just because of his skin color, and this is shown in a very honest way. His nickname, “Pushkin,” is meant to remind him constantly that he’s different, and the racism he experiences is harsh and relentless. Ismailov doesn’t shy away from showing how much this affects Mbobo’s life and although it was uncomfortable to read at times, it only made the story more real.
What struck me most about this novel though is how Ismailov immerses you in Mbobo’s world, making you feel his pain and confusion as well as his joy and hope. The raw emotions are so vividly portrayed that I found myself tearing up at some parts. This is a book that challenges you, but in the best possible way and I’m sure I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.
So if you’re looking for a moving story that will probably bring tears to your eyes, this book is for you!
Happy Reading!
About the Author
Hamid Ismaliov is an Uzbek journalist and writer. He was forced to flee Uzbekistan and come to the United Kingdom in 1992. In the UK, he has published various works in both Russian and English.
Some other works by him include:
- The Railway
- The Dead Lake
- Of Stranger and Bees
Find more on his Goodreads page!
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