Literature Project #10 Pierpaolo Mittica 'Chernobyl'

10 days into my year long daily Literature project. “Radiations will never wipe out our origins.”

Pierpaolo Mittica writing in his photographic book “Chernobyl” about the Hasidic Jewish community of Chernobyl explains:

“There was a Chernobyl before the nuclear accident occurred on 26 April 1986, not well known but of great historical importance, for the Jewish people. In fact, in Chernobyl, one of the most important currents of Judaism and the reforming currents of orthodox Judaism, developed. A Hasidic dynasty originated in Chernobylwith Rabbi Menachim Nochum Twersky, born 1730, who became a community preacher in Chernobyl.” (‘Chernobyl’, Pierpaolo Mittica © GOST Books,2024).

In fact there are people living and working within the Chernobyl exclusion zone, some by necessity in and around the nuclear plant, others by choice or necessity.

[Casablanca]

I imagine that is a very stirring and poignant book of photos. I had not heard of it before. This year is already proving an education.

[Andrew-Bede Allsop]

@casablanca The book has only just been published and it is most interesting.

[Kathy A]

I checked out this book, there are some very powerful photos inside

[Andrew-Bede Allsop]

@kjarn There are, the commentary is also powerful and informative e.g
I hadn't thought about nature reclaiming the area but being susceptible to fires which pump radioactive ash into the air, scary.

[Susan Wakely]

Beautifully presented. I am sure that this is a moving read and just looked at some of the photographs on Google.

[Lesley]

Fascinating and evocative. Thank you Andrew

[JackieR]

As predicted all ready learning from your theme. Off t'interweb to get more information

[aikiuser (jenn)]

A very evocative image and story

[Kathy]

An interesting photo. I like the flowers and the lighting.