Anja Against the Odds
by Daniel Jakacic
Genre: Historical Fiction
ISBN: 9781953865755
Print Length: 284 pages
Reviewed by Tomi Alo
A compelling tale of a brave young woman who tries her best to survive in an unfair world
For many European countries like Slovenia, the appeal of communism after the Second World War was undeniable. With the promise of equality, the eradication of poverty, and a world where everyone is treated fairly, communism seemed like the right solution to the socioeconomic injustice brought on by capitalism. It seemed to be the answer to their post-war struggles, offering “hope” for a brighter future after years of devastation, pain, and suffering.
However, in a country where its government cares very little for its citizens and rules through dictatorship, communist policies can lead to widespread suffering. In Anja: Against the Odds, the harsh realities of life under a communist regime are laid bare, revealing a stark difference to the utopian vision it promised. Set in 1950s Slovenia, the novel delves into the oppressive nature of the regime and the relentless struggles ordinary citizens like Anja had to face to survive.
“Discounts and bribes for Communists, rip-off taxes and extortionist prices for the rest. Welcome to the class-ridden classless utopia.”
Anja has spent her childhood working on her family’s farm, where she feels at peace surrounded by nature—the gentle breeze, the rhythm of the harvest, and the satisfaction of a year’s hard work. But when a new nationalization law threatens to seize her family’s land, the security of her world begins to crumble.
Determined to help her family survive in this difficult time, Anja finds a job at a radio factory.
At the factory, Anja is met with hostility—cold stares, cruel remarks, and manipulative bosses who seem determined to make her life miserable. Still, she draws strength from her father’s wise words and keeps her head down, determined to endure and learn what she can.
But things get even more complicated and dangerous as more attention is drawn to Anja. Will she be able to handle the pressure? Or will she walk away from it all and accept defeat?
Anja is a remarkable protagonist who embodies strength and resilience. Her growth throughout the novel is inspiring. She transforms from a young girl into a strong, independent woman who is not only driven by her love for her family but also by her determination to rise above the challenges placed before her.
Anja’s deep-rooted loyalty to her family shines through in every decision she makes, as she’s willing to sacrifice her own comfort and well-being for their sake. I love how she handles herself in the face of adversity, never allowing the harsh circumstances to diminish her spirit or values, instead allowing it to motivate her to strive even harder. Her calm and composed demeanor, even in the most toxic environments, reflects an inner strength that makes her both relatable and admirable.
While Communism is the main topic in the novel, there are much deeper themes Jakacic touches on such as injustice, corruption, politics, courage, family bonds, and survival. Jakacic shows us how easily politics infiltrates every aspect of life, from the workplace to the family. Through Anja’s eyes, we witness the devastation people go through on a daily basis due to its government policies; the injustice that occurs if one dares to speak up or oppose the law; and the cruelty that follows as the state robs its people of their rights and properties.
“From Fascist occupation to Communist takeover. Different names. Different faces. Different books. Different war. But all the same lies. Same theft. Same starving masses, and all the same senseless mayhem.”
Anja: Against the Odds offers a gripping and heartbreaking view of life in Slovenia during a Communist regime through the eyes of a resilient young woman. If you love historical novels based during or after the Second World War era, I recommend this one.
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