A Book About Baku Writers

A new book, AZƏRBAYCANIN RUSDİLLİ ƏDƏBİYYATI (PORTRET-OÇERKLƏR) or Russian-Language Literature of Azerbaijan: Portraits – Essays, was recently published in Baku. Compiled by Lala Tofik kizi Hasanova, this 2024 release is a significant contribution to the study of Russian-language literature in Azerbaijan.

The book, written in Azerbaijani, is aimed at local readers and explores the works of Azerbaijani authors who write in Russian, as well as Russian-born Bakuvians—those who, while ethnically Russian, have been shaped by the unique cultural atmosphere of Baku. This literary anthology sheds light on a vibrant and often overlooked literary scene that bridges languages and cultures.

A particularly notable inclusion is an essay on Eldar Akhadov, which appears on pages 18 and 19, right after an entry on the famous Azerbaijani writer Chingiz Abdullayev. Until now, books about Akhadov or those featuring his work were published only in Russian. The inclusion of his work in this Azerbaijani-language book marks an important milestone in bringing his literary contributions to a wider audience in Azerbaijan.

The book gathers under one cover a remarkable selection of authors, many of whom I know personally. It is always inspiring to see such a project come to life, recognizing the creative output of Russian-speaking writers in Azerbaijan.