Iuliia Mendel

In her first book, Iuliia Mendel illuminates the global impact of President Zelenskyy and the Ukrainian people’s unparalleled courage

Ukrainian journalist and former press secretary for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy IULIIA MENDEL has released her first book, The Fight of Our Lives: My Time with Zelenskyy, Ukraine's Battle for Democracy, and What It Means for the World, to immediate acclaim. A frank and moving insider’s account of Zelenskyy’s rise to international prominence and Russia’s War on Ukraine, Mendel provides essential context and the personal impact of history in the making. This impactful story, which Kirkus Reviews describes it as, “a nuanced portrait of a leader in a time of crisis who has definitely risen to the occasion,” has received glowing praise: Publisher’s Weekly called it “a spirited account of history in the making,” and Marci Shore, associate professor of history at Yale University and author of The Ukrainian Night, wrote: “In earnest and perceptive prose, Mendel’s The Fight of Our Lives tells the gripping story of Ukraine’s determined coming-of-age amid the most ghastly of circumstances.” It has also been acquired to be developed into a limited TV series, as reported by Deadline. Throughout her writing and in sought-after events, Mendel reminds us of the paramount importance of truth and human values, especially in these darkest of times.

Sought after for her frank and moving insights, Mendel’s commentary about the war in Ukraine – as well as the international impacts of this crisis – offer a deep background on the interconnected issues playing out on the world stage. Booklist called her debut "Vivid and clarifying," adding: "Mendel’s chronicle profoundly deepens our understanding of Ukraine and the current crisis and why it matters worldwide."

Watch Iuliia Mendel on MSNBC >>