Mikhail Gigolashvili's story reveals something hardly known to any of us. It reveals, convincing of the authenticity of incredible destinies and situations. The author himself is present in what is happening, combining at least two roles - translator and observer. A longtime native of Russia, he understands the fantastic confessions of “deserters” better than the corrosive German officials and separates lies from the truth. He understands better, but sometimes he himself gets lost, unwittingly joining the transcendental life of fugitives. The heroes of the story are not so much criminals (although sinners, of course, are always in conflict with the law), but poor fellows with an adventurous streak. “Deserters” to the extent that, having fled their native lands, they try to obtain political asylum in Germany, which, in atonement for Hitler’s atrocities, has pledged to provide shelter and work to everyone who holds progressive views, is subject to persecution. Refugees from all over the world flock here in the hope of a sweet life. Our compatriots, the grandchildren of those who fought with the Wehrmacht, are in the forefront. Be it Russians, Chechens, Ukrainians. Refusal to fight in Chechnya (regardless of which side) is one of the main reasons both for those who fought in Grozny and for those who do not know where this city is located. But they often do not know not only geography, but also their own biography. Trying over and over again to settle in what they imagine is a fairy-tale country, suffering failure after failure, changing their last name, first name, nationality, documents, some of them cease to understand when they are creating another legend about themselves as a sufferer, and when they are getting closer to the truth. Cunning is cunning, but also a complete mess, inner turmoil. Prison bunks are not excluded for any of those to whom this story is dedicated. The Canaries are a less likely prospect. However, what the hell is not joking.