What's the book 'Wongozero' about?

Wongozero is a fantasy novel that follows the story of a young protagonist as they navigate a world of magic and adventure. The book is full of action, suspense, and emotion, making it a total page-turner.

Who is the author Yana Wagner?

Yana Wagner is a debut author who has quickly made a name for herself in the fantasy genre. Her unique writing style and captivating voice have drawn in readers from all over the world.

Is 'Wongozero' part of a series?

Yes, Wongozero is the first book in a series of fantasy novels. The series follows the story of the protagonist as they navigate a world of magic and adventure.

What's the genre of 'Wongozero'?

Wongozero is a fantasy novel, specifically in the subgenre of epic fantasy.

Is 'Wongozero' available in paperback?

Yes, Wongozero is available in paperback format, making it easy to read and enjoy.

Can I donate my paperback copy of 'Wongozero' to the library?

Yes, you can definitely donate your paperback copy of Wongozero to the library. They appreciate any donations of new or recent titles.

Is 'Wongozero' available in hardcover?

Yes, Wongozero is also available in hardcover format, making it a great option for those who prefer a more premium reading experience.

Can I read 'Wongozero' on my e-reader?

Yes, Wongozero is available in e-book format, making it easy to read on your e-reader or tablet.

How long did it take you to read 'Wongozero'?

I devoured 'Wongozero' in just a few days, and I'm already hooked on the series.

Wongozero Book Review - A Fantasy Novel That Got Under My Skin

My Thoughts on 'Wongozero' - A Book That Got Under My Skin

Hello friends, it's me, The Seeker, and I'm always on the lookout for great books.

I recently read 'Wongozero' by Yana Wagner, and I wanted to share my thoughts on it. This was my first introduction to the author, and I had no prior knowledge of the series. I only found out about the TV adaptation from the cover of my book. I bought this book because I enjoy the genre, and it was a bargain since I got it in paperback. I'm not opposed to softcover editions; I'm totally fine with them.

For me, the content of the book is what matters, not the packaging. Yes, I prefer reading on paper - it's true. But I don't need fancy gift editions with gold foil or crystal inserts. A compact paperback with affordable paper is just fine. Plus, after trying it out, I can always buy the hardcover version and donate my paperback to the library. They're always short on new releases or recent titles, and they appreciate any donation. As long as it's not an old or worn-out book, I'd be happy to contribute.

So, I'm really glad I got to know the author. A bit off-topic, but I've already read the sequel (it wasn't as engaging, but I'd still recommend it), and I've got two more standalone stories to go. Yana has definitely made a lasting impression on my literary life, and I'm thrilled to have discovered her. You never know where you'll find a new writer who can hook you with their stories.

As for the quality of the book or any plot holes, I didn't notice anything that would turn me off. In the situation the characters found themselves in, their behavior felt natural and understandable. Even the most rational and loving person can get fixated on one idea. And they won't let it go, even if the world is burning or dying a slow death. That's why I was curious to read the negative reviews online, and more often than not, people were complaining about the main character's behavior.

I have to admit, I wasn't planning to contradict the reader's experience, but rather share my own thoughts on the matter. Specifically, how the old world came crashing down overnight and ceased to exist. I'm not even sure how I would have reacted in a similar situation – what triggers or safety mechanisms would have kicked in, and how I would have responded. So, my perspective seems reasonable enough. And when the characters mess up or behave 'strangely,' it actually highlights that they're just people, scared and struggling to cope with their shattered lives.

'Wongozero' is a reinterpretation of classic stories about a global virus that suddenly brings the world to its knees. It doesn't turn people into zombies or unknown monsters; it simply kills them. And no one knows how it spreads or if it can be controlled. There are plenty of theories and speculations, but few people get to test them in real life. The first line of defense against the virus were the doctors who initially thought it was a new strain of the flu or a cold.

The book was a page-turner. I've been missing out on this genre for a while now. Most stories either devolve into zombie apocalypses or are just another 'Mad Max' America. But this one was unique and original. The characters are ordinary people, not superheroes who are fearless. Their fears and problems are so relatable and understandable that I found myself becoming attached to them and worried about their fate. I also genuinely understand the psychological breakdown that occurs when you have to make a radical change in your life.

It's not just about leaving your family home; it's about completely redefining your reality. People like our heroine, who are not superheroes, can't cope with this kind of pressure. She's just an ordinary person who takes on too many responsibilities, not just from her family, but from the people she's trying to save.

'Wongozero' is a disaster novel, dystopia, road story, and postmodern thriller. It made it to the long lists of the NOSS and National Bestseller awards, was translated into 13 languages, and became a finalist for the Prix Bob Morane and Elle magazine. The platform PREMIER released its adaptation - a TV series 'Epidemia'. 'The city was suddenly closed, at night. I remember, there were no alarms yet. It was impossible to imagine that the quarantine wouldn't end in a few weeks. On TV, they were saying 'temporary measure', 'the situation is under control', 'there are enough medicines, food supplies are organized'. It was kind of nice - an unexpected vacation; our connection with the city wasn't cut off, it was just limited. The idea of getting there seemed non-urgent...' Everything happened so quickly. We were horrified by how reckless we'd been. Four hundred thousand infected!' This is how the epidemic started.

Imagine waking up in your bed, and the city is cordoned off. No one is leaving, no one is entering. The soothing voice of the announcer is whispering that everything is under control, and there's nothing to be afraid of. Just a temporary quarantine, because there have been outbreaks of an unusual virus that requires separate testing and careful care for the patients to prevent its further spread. There's no need to worry or get anxious; everything is under the authorities' complete control.

The current blockade of the city is more of a precaution than a necessary measure. So, people just need to put up with a little inconvenience, and everything will go back to normal soon. The voice on the TV continues to softly report this, but deep down, there's a sense that everything is not as they say. No need to go out, be afraid of contact with people. Even if they're close or just neighbors. Because the strange virus turned out to be deadly, and it kills very quickly. There's no escape or medicine for it, as it's unclear how it affects the human body and why.

There's only waiting, believing, and hoping left. Or trying to break out of the blockade and run as far as possible from the city, which was considered the best metropolis on the planet just a week ago. But everything is relative. What is our stronghold and home today might be our tomb tomorrow. This happened to the main heroine, who's trying to survive at any cost. I really like this character in terms of her motivation and the emotions she's going through. Maybe they're 'wrong' (I'm not a woman, so I find it hard to reason about this), but they seemed quite genuine to me.

Considering what people are going through.

I've got to say, the plot was probably the weakest link in this book, but it didn't stop me from enjoying the adventure. After they decided to leave Moscow and head to a safe place, they just couldn't think of anything better than remembering a small island that's really far off the beaten path. But why didn't any of the characters think about what it would be like for them to live there after they arrived? I mean, it's not like they were thinking things through, considering they were in a state of panic and desperation. It's actually consistent with the way the protagonist behaved throughout the book - she was driven by fear, exhaustion, and a general sense of chaos.

People need hope, they need to believe that there's a place where they can hide from the outside world and stay safe from the virus. So, let's not try to apply logic here. People are driven by emotions, panic, and fear. Even the most rational person will start to lose their grip and do some pretty crazy things. And that's exactly what we see in this book. Our characters are ordinary people who make mistakes. Some things are hard to justify, even in the face of an epidemic. But I'm not here to judge - I've never been in that situation, and I hope I never will.

'Wong Lake' is a story about a group of families who come together to make a desperate bid for freedom and reach the fabled lake that's said to be able to hide them from the rest of the world. As you can probably guess, the virus has had a profound impact on people's lives. Some prisons are no longer secure, and military bases have been abandoned by the soldiers who decided to flee rather than die on duty. The world as we knew it is crumbling, and it's hard to say if it will ever go back to normal.

People are trying to hold on to their sense of morality and civilization, but it's getting harder and harder to see the humanity in them. The characters are on a long, difficult, and sometimes morally ambiguous journey. They'll have to make some tough choices, and stealing from someone who's willing to take them in is just the beginning of their struggles.

The characters will have to do some things that are hard to stomach, like stealing from someone who's willing to take them in. It's not the most pleasant thing to do, but it's a necessary evil if they want to survive.

No one ever thought that a massive metropolis like Moscow could be sealed off from the outside world with barbed wire, that airports and train stations would shut down overnight, and passengers would be left standing on the platform, a frozen, bewildered crowd, watching as empty trains disappeared into the distance, feeling both relieved and terrified, like kids who've been told school's been cancelled.

I was expecting a lot of action and thrills, but this book is more about the inner struggles and demons. It's about how someone feels when their life is falling apart and they're not even sure how they're still holding on in this reality. My main character has a kid and a husband she needs to be strong for, and there are other loved ones who are in similar situations. It's like the hobbits going to Mordor to get rid of the One Ring, but our travelers are trying to get as far away from civilization as possible.

They're trying to escape to a place where the virus can't reach them, where they can wait out the official news from the authorities and figure out how to move forward. If they can even survive that long.

It's like when you're on the way home and you fall asleep in the backseat of a taxi, only to wake up just a minute before the driver says 'we're here' and stops the car.

I'm giving this book a top rating and raising my virtual hand in approval. It's not a deep, philosophical epic, but it got to me. The characters are real, the emotions are authentic, and the collapse of major cities and the panic of the people feels really realistic. Thanks to Yana for a great story with a great atmosphere.