Don‘t Close Your Eyes

Don‘t Close Your Eyes is a powerful and soul-stirring novel by acclaimed Bulgarian author Martin Ralchevski, now translated into English. Set against the backdrop of communist-era Bulgaria, the story follows Peter, a young man with a mental disability, whose world is shattered by a tragic accident that claims the life of his beloved sister. Fleeing from his father‘s wrath and the threat of unjust punishment, Peter embarks on a harrowing journey into the heart of the Strandzha Mountains—an odyssey of survival, guilt, and spiritual awakening. As Peter navigates a hostile world filled with danger, judgment, and unexpected kindness, he encounters hermits, monks, and ordinary people who reveal glimpses of divine mercy. Anchored in Orthodox Christian themes and rich in cultural and historical detail, this deeply moving novel explores the nature of suffering, redemption, and the unyielding strength of faith. Already a multi-award-winning film adaptation, Don‘t Close Your Eyes is a profound testament to the power of grace and the resilience of the human spirit.