The Iron Dragon's Daughter in Ukraine

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Look at that beautiful cover! It seems that The Iron Dragon's Daughter is back in print again--this time, in Ukraine. I can hardly tell you how moved I am that in the midst of war, Ukrainians can find time for the civilized pleasure of reading a fantasy novel.

I don't feel that way just because it's my novel in question--though I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel flattered by the choice. I believe strongly in the virtues of fantasy literature. As solace in times of loss, as haven in times of suffering and, yes, as escape whenever escape is needed. It was there for me when I needed it most. It will be there for others long after I am gone.

This did put me in a difficult moral position, though. I was paid for the right to translate and publish my book. This is right and proper. Creators of art, music, literature, and the like should all and always be paid. But I couldn't feel good about taking money out of a country where it is needed.

So I donated the lot to GlobalGiving's Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund, which provides shelter, food, and clean water to refugees, treatment for children with cancer, access to education and economic assistance to civilians in need, among many other admirable services. They even have a program to provide transport for rescued pets.

One thing that was important to me was that none of the money will go to support the Ukrainian Army. This may be hypocritical of me--I'm still struggling with that one--but I have friends in Russia and would not want to contribute to the death of a son or nephew there.

Anyway, the new edition of The Iron Dragon's Daughter from Zhupansky is beautiful and I'm delighted to see it. Meanwhile, alas, the war continues.

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