Kochanek Wielkiej Niedźwiedzicy

This is the first and most famous novel by Sergiusz Piasecki, published for the first time in 1937, based on his own experiences. It gained immense popularity, as evidenced by four editions before the outbreak of World War II. Many writers highly regarded this novel, including Stanisław Mackiewicz, Melchior Wańkowicz, Juliusz Kaden-Bandrowski, and Marian Hemar. The novel written in the form of an autobiography describes the lives of smugglers on the Polish-Soviet border in the 1920s. Władek joins a group of smugglers. He quickly realizes that their work is hard and requires great courage but at the same time allows for truly sincere and strong friendships – Saszka, Żywica, Aligant, Słowik, Mamut and many others – will leave a deep mark on Władek''s heart. Life on the border draws him in; Great Bear seduces him; night enchants with mystery and hidden danger. However, soon Władek will also get to know this bitter side of life.