The book “Gastroler” tells about the author’s two-year work as a divemaster at one of the African resorts. From the preface: “All events are presented in strict sequence, and in theory, “Gastroler” aims for the niche of picaresque novels about a Jew deftly making his gamble among mentally alien natives. However, the reader of Trachtenberg’s “prokhindiad” constantly stumbles in search of an answer to the main question: is it an autobiography or fiction? <...> If the author composed the plot, then why are there so few exciting adventures and where do so many physiological details come from, such as the consequences of poisoning and the description of the great need for a diving suit? Well, in general, the lyrical hero is extremely similar to the narcissistic and resilient showman Trachtenberg, as we see him We recognized it from previous books, and besides, it bears his first, patronymic and last name.”