“Ground Up” is a novel written by Michael Idov, which tells the story of a Russian immigrant named Andrei Kaplan who moves to New York City to start a new life. The novel explores themes of identity, immigration, and the pursuit of the American dream. Andrei has a successful career in Moscow as a film critic, but decides to leave everything behind after the collapse of his marriage and the death of his father. He moves to Brooklyn and takes a job at a website that specializes in viral videos, but struggles to find his place in this new culture.
As Andrei tries to navigate his new life in Brooklyn, he encounters various challenges and obstacles. He struggles to adapt to the fast-paced and competitive nature of the media industry, as well as the cultural differences between Russia and America. He also faces personal difficulties, such as loneliness and self-doubt. Despite these challenges, Andrei is determined to succeed and build a new life for himself in America. He gradually begins to find his footing in the fast-paced world of viral content, using his wit and intelligence to navigate the murky waters of internet fame.
Throughout the novel, Andrei grapples with questions of identity and belonging. As an immigrant in a new country, he struggles to define who he is and where he fits in. He is caught between his Russian heritage and his desire to assimilate into American culture. Andrei also grapples with his past and his relationships with his family, especially his father. The novel delves into the complexities of immigration and the challenges of starting over in a new place.
As Andrei’s career in the media industry takes off, he becomes more deeply entrenched in the world of viral content and internet culture. He begins to question his own moral compass as he chases success and fame in a cutthroat industry. The novel explores the darker side of the media world, including the exploitation of personal stories for profit and the manipulation of public opinion through viral content. Andrei must navigate these ethical dilemmas while trying to stay true to himself and his values.
As Andrei’s professional and personal life intertwine, he is forced to confront his own vulnerabilities and insecurities. He grapples with the pressures of success and the weight of his own expectations. Throughout the novel, Andrei must confront his own demons and come to terms with his past in order to move forward. The novel paints a vivid portrait of a man on the brink of transformation, struggling to find his place in a world that is constantly changing and evolving.
In the end, “Ground Up” is a poignant exploration of the immigrant experience and the pursuit of the American dream. It is a story of resilience, self-discovery, and the complexities of identity. Through the character of Andrei Kaplan, Michael Idov captures the struggle of starting over in a new country and the universal quest for belonging and meaning. The novel offers a thought-provoking look at the challenges and triumphs of the immigrant experience in America today.
