Cult classics about Paris and London have been published in Ukrainian for the first time
In the Czech capital, at the initiative of the Ukrainian Embassy, a presentation was held of the first Ukrainian translations of world-renowned books by Czech illustrator Miroslav Šašek—“This Is Paris” and “This Is London.”
The publications are part of a large-scale cultural project aimed at introducing Ukrainian children to European classics.
Vasyl Zvarych, Ukraine’s Ambassador to the Czech Republic, emphasized the importance of this event for strengthening ties between the two countries.
“The translation of his books into Ukrainian is not just a literary event. It is a bridge between our peoples,” the diplomat noted during the ceremony.
According to the ambassador, these publications allow Ukrainians to learn about Czech culture, its unique sense of humor, and everyday life through the lens of this outstanding author’s work.
The project is being implemented by the non-governmental organization “International Institute of Cultural Diplomacy” as part of the “Genius Loci: Miroslav Šašek” initiative.
The event is particularly significant given that Miroslav Šašek himself spent most of his life in exile.
In Czechoslovakia at the time, his vivid and insightful books were banned from publication until the fall of the communist regime in 1989.
“We are not only returning to his legacy, but also opening it up to a new audience—this time for Ukrainian readers,” emphasized Vasyl Zvarych.
Now these classic guidebooks are becoming available to children who have found themselves in Europe due to the war.
A strong team of partners worked on the project, including the Prague City Gallery, the Šašek Foundation, and translator Lenka Vihová.
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