Woodhaven, MI Author Publishes New Book

Behind the Iron Curtain: Tears in the Perfect Hockey "GULAG", a new book by Maxim Starchenko, has been released by RoseDog Books.

This book is about Maxim Starchenko's experience on Druzhba-78 from 1986-1996. The story graphically describes the cruelty and inhumanity of the team's only coach, Ivan Pravilov. He abused and constantly reprimanded his players for his own entertainment and personal satisfaction. The book describes the author's constant struggle for survival and eventual road to recovery. Maxim faced adversity on two fronts: with his coach and with his misunderstanding parents, doubling the burden. The author hopes his book will encourage other former players to step forward and make Ivan Pravilov accountable for his actions. More so, the book questions why this monster continues to instruct children and live comfortably in the United States.

About the Author

At the age of eight, Maxim Starchenko was selected by Ivan Pravilov to be a member of his soccer/hockey team, Druzhba-78. The initial excitement and hope of eventually representing his country led to a world of cruelty and abuse. For ten years, Maxim and his teammates endured unspeakable torment while Pravilov built his reputation. At eighteen, Maxim broke his allegiance and took his life into his own hands. With the help and generosity of friends, he earned an athletic scholarship to attend Wayne State University in Detroit. He eventually married and currently lives in the Detroit area, where he works as a teacher and coach.

Behind the Iron Curtain: Tears in the Perfect Hockey "GULAG" is a 158-page paperback with a retail price of $17.00. The ISBN is 978-1-4349-8553-8. It was published by RoseDog Books of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. For more information or to request a review copy, please visit our virtual pressroom at www.rosedog.com/pressroom or our online bookstore at www.rosedogbookstore.com.