“A Michener epic is far more than a bedtime reader, it’s an experience. Poland is a monumental effort, a magnificent guide to a better understanding of the country’s tribulations.”—Chicago TribuneIn this sweeping novel, James A. Michener chronicles eight tumultuous centuries as three Polish families live out their destinies. The Counts Lubonski, the petty nobles Bukowksi, and the peasants Buk are … Bukowksi, and the peasants Buk are at some times fiercely united, at others tragically divided. With an inspiring tradition of resistance to brutal invaders, from the barbarians to the Nazis, and a heritage of pride that burns through eras of romantic passion and courageous solidarity, their common story reaches a breathtaking culmination in the historic showdown between the ruthless Communists and rebellious farmers of the modern age. Like the heroic land that is its subject, Poland teems with vivid events, unforgettable characters, and the unfolding drama of an entire nation.
BONUS: This edition includes an excerpt from James A. Michener’s Centennial.
Praise for Poland
“Engrossing . . . a page-turner in the grand Michener tradition.”—The Washington Post
“Stunning . . . an unmatched overview of Polish history . . . The families themselves come very much alive, and through them, Poland itself.”—USA Today
“A titanic documentary novel.”—The Wall Street Journal
more
This book is something of a tour de force – I found out so much about Poland that I never knew. Such a tragic country with no real natural borders. Wonderfully descriptive and you really get a feeling for their history. I loved it.
I never thought I’d be interested in Poland; don’t have anything against it, I simply didn’t know much about it. However, this book grabbed my interest from the first page and didn’t let go.
Michener was a master storyteller, and this is a fascinating story.
A little slow at the beginning as I think it goes just a little to deep into the history. The story is good but very detailed as to facts and people. Good reading on the history of a family in Poland but.
Well researched as expected from Michener. I always enjoy the way Michener mixes a story into history. Well done.
Great epic work of historical fiction. Would recommend for anyone who wants to learn more about Polish history through a fictional narrative.
Overabundance of history. Just became interested in one set of characters when it jumped another century and started over with another set. Might have been more readable in two volumes.
Loved learning about Poland’s history. Very informative and entertaining.
Loved it
Even though it was written many years ago it is still relevant and explains the history of Poland and why it is the way it is today.
Another one of Michener’s well-researched and well-written books. I always learn so much when I read his works.
I got a Polish co-worker recently, and realized that though I some a little bit about the history of a lot of European countries, I knew nothing about Poland. This book is done in the usual Michener style of inventing characters to interact with real people in history, and then telling the history of the country or region from the very earliest …
This book was a surprise. Not the best Michener ever written but very informative and interesting. Poland is a fascinating country.
Good but not quite as good as some of his others.
James Michener Starts at the very beginning and an ends after World War II. This is a saga of the people and the land. before you start this book, as usual with Michener, put on a pot of hot chocolate and an extra scone because you’re going to be there a while. You’ll wonder how you could get through a 700 page book so quickly.
too narrative, I could not finish it
Very informative and well written.
I generally enjoy Michener books but this was just too much war for me, I did not finish it. My husband loved it.
Not one of Michtners best
James Michener thoroughly researches all aspects that will be in his novels. Poland is no exception. If you want to be knowlegeable of a plug of Polish history and the who/why/and how of the event in that era of history, this book will engage you and not let you quit. Thoroughly entertaining as well as informative. The story line is …
I love history and this book explains the tragic history of Poland through the lives of its people. It makes one appreciate the Polish people and their love for their land. It is amazing that the Poland of today is alive and thriving.