War from the Rear

A gripping, unexpectedly humorous, and deeply human portrait of life in Ukraine reshaped by war. In this powerful collection of essays, writer Andriy Lyubka--thrust into the role of an unlikely volunteer--offers a firsthand account of delivering aid to the front lines.
With raw honesty and surprising wit, Lyubka captures both the absurdity and the heartbreak of war. He reflects on time lost, the emotional toll of conflict, and the everyday defiance that keeps hope alive. From the logistical nightmares of aid distribution to the rich aroma of coffee that briefly restores a soldier's sense of normalcy, War from the Rear reveals a side of war rarely seen--the human side.
More than just a chronicle of conflict, this book is a tribute to the individuals who endure it, the bonds they build, and the acts of kindness that shine through even the darkest times. It's an essential, unforgettable perspective on Ukraine's ongoing fight that will stay with readers long after the final page.

Andriy Lyubka is a Ukrainian poet, essayist, novelist, and translator known for his sharp wit and keen observations on contemporary life. Raised in Vynohradiv, Ukraine, he studied Ukrainian Philology at Uzhhorod National University and later earned a master's degree in Balkan Studies from Warsaw University. Lyubka is the author of multiple poetry collections, short stories, and novels, including Carbide, a vivid exploration of smuggling culture in Ukraine's Zakarpattia region. He also translates literature from Polish, Serbian, Bosnian, Croatian, and English. His essays and commentary appear in leading Ukrainian and international publications such as New Eastern Europe, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and Den'. Currently based in Uzhhorod, Lyubka continues to be a significant voice in Ukrainian literature, offering insightful and often humorous perspectives on identity, conflict, and everyday resilience.