On the Road to Babadag: Travels in the Other Europe by

Andrzej Stasiuk, a tireless traveler, embarks on a series of adventures across Eastern Europe, from Poland to the Black Sea. His journeys by car, train, bus, and ferry take him through Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Slovenia, Albania, Moldova, and Ukraine, revealing a Europe grappling with its past and present. Through vivid descriptions and personal encounters, Stasiuk paints a picture of a region in transition, where the echoes of communism still linger amidst the encroaching forces of globalization./n/nStasiuk's narrative is filled with evocative details, from the loose wires hanging from the dashboard of a century-old Audi to the sight of his first minaret in Babadag. His observations are sharp and insightful, offering a unique perspective on the cultural and political landscapes of these often-overlooked countries. This is not just a travelogue but a profound exploration of identity, history, and the human condition.

Reviews

Culture.pl · 2025-10-20

wonderful 4.50

The book is described as a mysterious and wonderful journey through Eastern Europe. It focuses on the decline and decay of the regions, offering a unique perspective.

The reviewer praises the book as a mysterious and wonderful journey through the often-overlooked parts of Eastern Europe. They note that Stasiuk is drawn to the decline and decay of these regions, which adds a unique and compelling perspective to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the depth and authenticity of Stasiuk's observations, making the book a standout in travel literature. The focus on the less glamorous aspects of travel adds a layer of intrigue and realism that resonates with the reader.

Quick quotes

The book is a mysterious, wonderful journey through the other Europe.

Stasiuk is not interested in museums or quaint villages and admits he is 'drawn to decline.'

This is a travelogue that goes beyond the surface, delving into the heart of the regions it explores.

The Independent · 2025-10-20

authentic 4.00

The writing is unconventional but deeply authentic, capturing the emptiness and disconnectedness of the journey. It stands out as a profound literary experience rather than traditional travel writing.

This review highlights the book's unique approach to travel writing, noting its unconventional style. The reviewer appreciates the authenticity with which it portrays the emptiness and disconnectedness of the regions Stasiuk explores. They emphasize that the book transcends typical travel narratives, offering a more profound and literary experience. The reviewer finds the journey through Eastern Europe to be both mysterious and wonderfully captured, making it a standout piece of literature.

Quick quotes

As travel writing, this is unconventional, but as literature profoundly authentic.

The emptiness, the disconnectedness and the stasis deep into the heart of the Other Europe.

This is a book that lingers in the mind long after the last page has been turned.

Europe Between East and West · 2020-02-15

stunning 4.25

The book is seen as a stunning foray into travel writing, offering a unique perspective on Eastern Europe. The reviewer appreciates the literary quality and the depth of the journey.

This review highlights the book as a stunning initial foray into travel writing by Stasiuk, who is known for his novels. The reviewer appreciates the unique perspective it offers on Eastern Europe, noting the literary quality of the writing. They find the journey to be deeply engaging and the observations to be insightful, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also notes that the book goes beyond typical travel narratives, offering a more profound and personal exploration of the regions.

Quick quotes

His literary output has mostly been novels, but the Road to Babadag was an initial foray into travel writing than turned into a stunning journey.

Stasiuk's observations are insightful and his writing is deeply engaging.

This book offers a unique and profound exploration of Eastern Europe.

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