Georgi Gospodinov is the recipient of the International Booker Prize and the Premio Strega, among many other accolades. He lives in Sofia, Bulgaria. Angela Rodel won the International Booker for translation and has received honors such as the PEN Translation Fund Grant. She lives in Sofia.

"This is a difficult book to read at times, and in all likelihood most difficult for those to whom it speaks most directly, those who have experienced the same suffering. But they may also find a welcome recognition and empathy, and the beauty from truth that the best art delivers... to the select canon of worthwhile books about fathers, Gospodinov has created a vital and valuable addition."