The main character is Ivan - or Vanya, or Itzak. He's a Russian Jew born in the 1970's. But, he moves to the US by the age of eleven. He's multilingual, and most of the book is written when Ivan is in his early twenties.
If I had to describe the book in three words, it would be romantic culture shock. It's like a modern day version of Sleeping Beauty, except this isn't for those under the age of ten. Ivan is the 'prince', who defeats a bear and kisses Katerina, 'Sleeping Beauty'. Though, Katerina is from 870 AD - and doesn't speak a written language. Poor Ivan has to marry her, and help her to save her kingdom from Baba Yaga.
I really like this book. It's in my top 50 or so. I got it for my birthday, but I read it for the first time two or three years ago. I've read it since then, but I got sick of the library copy, and asked for it for my birthday. It's an amazing book.
Be warned if you decide to read it: the first chapter will shock you. It's not really for the fainthearted - it can get gross.
