Sandro of Chegem by Fazil Iskander. Short summary

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The novel in short stories consists of 33 novellas and short stories. The novel tells the story of the main character Sandro Chegemsky, his relatives, residents of Chegem.

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The action of the novel takes place in the twentieth century. At the center of the narrative — the Abkhazian family Khabuga and his uncle Sandro. Also in the stories are found historical figures — Stalin, Beria, Nestor Lakoba and others.

Uncle Sandro from Chegem lived almost eighty years and has seen a lot in his lifetime. Once he was almost shot dead by a jealous admirer of his mistress, the Countess. And once Uncle Sandro accidentally caught for Prince Oldenburgsky his escaped favorite, a black swan.

Uncle Sandro was also «lucky» to meet Stalin himself. While still a boy, he encountered the young expropriator Stalin, who was escaping from the chase. Sandro later danced for the leader as part of a folk ensemble.

Uncle Sandro had a beautiful daughter, Tali. All the inhabitants of the village admired her talents. But one day Tali ran off with the half-breed Bagrat.

The story of Uncle Sandro’s marriage is also remarkable. One day the hero decided to help his friend steal his bride. But Sandro himself fell in love with the stolen girl. He had to cheat a little.