A non-fiction book by Paval Valatovič exploring the history of modern Belarus through the author’s personal memories and cultural experiences.

Blending memoir, historical reflection, and cultural commentary, the book revisits the formative years of independent Belarus between 1991 and 2005. People, political events, books, music, films, and sports moments come together to form a portrait of a country searching for its identity.

The narrative moves through both hopeful and difficult moments — things worth being proud of, and things that should never happen again. Personal memories become a way to reflect on the broader social and cultural history of Belarus.

The title “IMBY” can be interpreted in two ways: “in my backyard” — something deeply personal and closely connected to home — and “I AM BY,” meaning: “I am Belarusian. I am Belarus.”

Language: Belarusian
Cover: hardcover
Format: 170x245 mm
Number of pages: 330
Place of publication: Poland
Year of publication: 2025