Nikolay Spiridonov's short stories are crafted in a rich and colorful literary language. The first part of the book flourishes a mosaic of childhood memories from Soviet Crimea and tales of a Russian family through the tumults of the 20th century. The second part features tales of Soviet and emigrant life. The author illuminates the happenings of daily life from unusual angles, bringing out the states and movements of his characters' souls. The narrative, which at the beginning is seen through the eyes of a five-year old boy, broadens and deepens, morphing into a mystical journey to the deep foundations of human existence.