Behind The Iron Curtain

The book is about Maxim Starchenko’s experience on Druzhba-78 between 1986 and 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 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, it raises an important question of why this monster continues to instruct children and live comfortably in the United States.