Vasil Bykov's story 'Sign of Trouble' is one of the most profound and truthful works about the war and the interwar period in Belarus. The symbolism and psychological precision of the characters, along with an uncompromising view of the tragic events, make the work relevant and engaging for a wide range of readers.
Book in Belarusian
Vasil Vladimirovich Bykov was born on 19 June 1924 in the village of Bychki, Ushachsky District, Vitebsk Region, into a peasant family. From childhood he was interested in drawing. He graduated from 8 classes of school in the village of Kublichi, then studied in the sculpture department of the Vitebsk Art College (1939–1940) and at a factory training school (until May 1941). In June 1941 he passed the examinations for the 10th grade externally.
The war found him in Ukraine, where he took part in defensive works. During the retreat, in Belgorod, he fell behind his column and was arrested and nea…
