Tree of childhood by Fazil Iskander. Short summary

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The author recalls his native village of Chegem, where his favorite walnut tree grew and where he spent his carefree pre-war childhood. The author also recalls the hard war years, as well as his last visit to Chegem.

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A tale from the series «Sandro of Chegem. The author talks about his favorite walnut tree that grew in the Sabid hollow. A huge old tree tried to burn the Komsomol members, and even earlier it was struck by lightning. But the tree survived.

As a child, the author spent every summer at his grandfather’s house in the village of Chegem. He warmly recalls the happy days when he climbed trees and gathered ripe grapes.

The author also recalls the hard war years, when life was difficult and hungry. There were often burial bells coming from the front, and unripe grapes seemed like a delicious treat.

The author recalls his last visit to his native Chegem. At that time they went down to the Sabida hollow with Uncle Sandro. Here they met an old shepherd, Kunta, who didn’t recognize them. The author asked Kunta about his relatives and acquaintances. Many have died, many have left the village. Chegem was gradually dying out.

As the travelers were leaving Chegem, Uncle Sandro turned back and said: «The worst cow got the cowshed.»