Presentation of Vasyl Shkliar’s Novel “Year of the Hornet”

24.11.2025

A presentation of Vasyl Shkliar’s novel “Year of the Hornet” was held at Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University. 

On November 21, a significant cultural and educational event took place at Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University – the presentation of Vasyl Shkliar’s new book “The Year of the Hornet”, organized with the assistance of the NGO “Defense of the State” represented by its chairman Petro Vorona and the university leadership represented by the Rector Olena Karaman. Our university was the first where the writer began his cycle of meetings and presentations in cultural centers of the Poltava region. 

The hall was full – about 200 participants became part of this literary meeting. Among those present were teachers, students, university employees, combatants, members of the Union of Officers of Ukraine, creative figures, librarians from Hrebinka and Khorol, as well as representatives of the National Union of Writers of Ukraine. Such a wide range of guests testified that Ukrainian literature continues to unite different generations, views and professions.

Vasyl Shkliar’s new book is a synthesis of historical truth, philosophical reflections, and mystical elements. The plot of the novel revolves around the Ukrainian insurgents of the Poltava region in the 1920s, who fought against the Moscow occupation.

“The Year of the Hornet” combines the past and the present, emphasizing the continuity of the Ukrainian struggle for freedom. The atmosphere of the novel is deep, emotionally rich, and at the same time filled with the Ukrainian spirit, character, and truth. According to numerous reviews from readers and critics, the book is one of the strongest works of modern Ukrainian literature.

The event discussed not only the book, but also the writer’s creative path, his childhood memories, how the manuscript that became the basis of the novel was found, as well as the complex current reality in which Ukrainians are once again fighting for their right to be free.

At the end, the author warmly and gratefully communicated with the audience, signed his books, took pictures with all comers, giving everyone a piece of faith in the power of the Ukrainian word.

For students and the entire university community, such a meeting is not just an acquaintance with a new book. It is a lively dialogue with one of the most famous Ukrainian writers, an opportunity to hear the voice of history and understand that the struggle for statehood is not an abstract concept, but the experience of generations that shapes our identity today.

Such events instill in young people respect for Ukrainian culture, a deeper understanding of national memory and inspire them to continue the tradition of resistance, perseverance and love for the Motherland. LTSNU, which itself is a symbol of invincibility, especially appreciates the presence of artists who strengthen the mental front.

Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University sincerely thanks Vasyl Shkliar for the warm, meaningful and inspiring meeting. This is an event that has enriched everyone — readers, the creative community, and students who are just forming their worldview.

The book “Year of the Hornet” deserves everyone’s attention — so we sincerely recommend reading it.

Department of Marketing of LTSNU