by Andrey Kurkov
Published 2011
A BBC Two Between the Covers Pick 'A tragicomic masterpiece' Daily Telegraph All that stands between one man and murder by the mafia is a penguin. Viktor is an aspiring writer in Ukraine with only Misha, his pet penguin, for company. Although Viktor would prefer to write short stories, he earns a living composing obituaries for a newspaper. He longs to see his work published, yet the subjects of his obituaries continue to cling to life. But when Viktor opens the newspaper to see his work in print for the first time, his pride swiftly turns to terror. Viktor and Misha have been drawn into a trap from which there appears to be no escape. 'A striking portrait of post-Soviet isolation... In this bleak moral landscape Kurkov manages to find ample refuge for his dark humour' New York Times
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Top voices for narrating this book
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Calm
“This voice brings a low-pitched, gravelly texture and a stern, sombre tone, ideal for the bleak and darkly humorous narrative, emphasizing its unique character.”
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Modulated
“With a deep, steady, and well-modulated delivery, this voice excels at building tension, perfectly capturing the mysterious and measured gravitas required for the post-Soviet setting.”
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Calm
“His naturally calm British tone and mysterious quality lend themselves beautifully to the detached, observant narration, adding subtle depth and intrigue to the absurd events.”
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Deep
“Possessing a deep, slow-burning voice drenched in suspense, Zane's vocal presence is compelling for a narrative demanding a distinct mood and underlying tension.”
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Serious
“An educated British male with a serious, rich tone, this voice is suitable for delivering the narrative's gravitas and intellectual undertones without being overly dramatic.”
For listeners: use the Best Narrator voice above in ElevenReader or Fish Audio. Character casting is for authors producing audiobooks with studio tools.
An introverted and melancholic aspiring writer, whose voice reflects his quiet isolation, growing fear, and understated absurdity amidst chaotic events.
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Calm
“The calm, conversational style of this voice is a perfect fit for Viktor's introverted nature and quiet isolation, allowing for intimate reflection and understated absurdity.”
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Meditative
“Offering a smooth and grounded voice with a reflective quality, Cedric conveys the melancholic introspection essential for Viktor's character, particularly his quiet despair.”
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Calm
“This voice's measured delivery and subtle warmth can express Viktor's growing fear and understated emotions, providing a sympathetic portrayal without resorting to overt drama.”
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Confident
“With a softly spoken yet clear delivery, this voice precisely captures Viktor's quiet disposition, making his internal struggles and moments of absurdity feel personal and genuine.”
British · Middle Aged · Male · Narrative Story · Calm
“Bob Velvet’s smooth, deep, and relaxed tone nicely supports Viktor's initial detachment and low-key presence, gradually allowing for the undercurrents of fear and oddity to emerge.”