PU-239 and Other Russian Fantasies

Exploring the complexities of Russian history, the stories present a diverse range of characters facing extraordinary circumstances. From a nuclear worker selling plutonium to a cosmonaut's unconventional preflight preparations, each tale offers a unique perspective. A young man's hopes amidst Chechen rebels and a Jewish couple's bittersweet journey to establish a state add depth to the narrative. The closing novella highlights the intertwining of personal and political lives in 1960s Russia, showcasing Kalfus' talent for crafting believable characters against a rich historical backdrop.