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Photographer: Larry Towell
Publisher: GOST Books
Publication date: 2024
Print length: 116 pages
Language: English
Price Range:
Reviews:
The History War by Larry Towell is a visually compelling and deeply immersive exploration of Ukraine’s tumultuous history, blending photographs, collages, and ephemera into a multifaceted narrative. This book provides a panoramic view of Ukraine’s struggle for independence, from the 5th century to the present day, chronicling the personal and political upheavals that have shaped the nation.

The book is organized into six distinct narratives, each documenting the pivotal events and people Towell encountered throughout his extensive travels in Ukraine. It begins with Towell’s initial visit during the Maidan uprising of 2014, where he captured the intense final days of the clashes between protesters and police in Kyiv. His stark images of makeshift barricades, heavily shielded police, and the aftermath of violence offer a raw and unfiltered look at this critical moment in Ukrainian history. This experience marked the beginning of Towell’s long-term commitment to documenting the country.

Following the Maidan uprising, Towell’s focus shifts to the desolate landscapes of Chernobyl, highlighting the lingering impact of the 1986 nuclear disaster on the Soviet psyche. Subsequent chapters take readers through the conflict-ridden eastern Donbass region, including scenes of neglected coal miners, war-torn ruins, and the Ukrainian Army’s operations in Bakhmut. Towell’s immersive approach also covers interactions with separatists in Donetsk and Luhansk, and the harrowing consequences of the Russian invasion, including the exhumation of civilian graves and the documentation of war crimes in Bucha.

Towell’s book is notable for its unique format, resembling a scrapbook that interweaves personal notes with a diverse array of ephemera—postcards, found family photos, playing cards, and items left behind by Russian soldiers. This innovative approach not only enhances the storytelling but also offers a tangible connection to the people and places depicted.

Described by Towell as “one person’s book on Ukraine,” The History War challenges conventional photobook formats, demonstrating how diverse materials and narratives can be woven together to create a powerful and cohesive historical account. The book is available in two colorways—yellow with blue endpapers or blue with yellow endpapers—adding a layer of serendipity to its presentation.

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