NEWS • 18 MAR 2022

Wilkinson Publishing releases first major profile on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky

Wilkinson Publishing announces the release of the international title Zelensky: The Unlikely Ukrainian Hero Who Defied Putin and United the World in a rapid-fire production.

It is the first major profile on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and will be released simultaneously in the US with Regnery Publishing, who Wilkinson Publishing is working closely with for overseas rights including audio. An international first print run of 100,000-plus copies is now expected.

‘As with the rest of the world, we have been saddened by the unfolding Russian invasion of Ukraine and inspired by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the strength of the Ukrainian people,’ said Publisher Michael Wilkinson. ‘We’re sure more books on Zelensky and the war are in the works and will be announced soon, so while ensuring a quality book and story are told we have prioritised getting this through production quickly and appreciate booksellers and readers will be interested in discovering more about Zelensky while the war in unfolding.’

Author Andrew L. Urban, based in Sydney, fled Hungary as a child during the 1956 revolution and knows first-hand the experience of being a refugee. Author Chris McLeod, based in Melbourne, is a former newspaper journalist and executive. He was Foreign Editor and News Editor at the Newcastle Morning Herald and News Editor at the Melbourne Herald.  

The book focuses on Zelensky’s background as a comedian and actor and charts his unexpected appointment as President. It also provides an overview of Ukraine’s history, the Russian invasion, Zelensky’s rousing speeches, his prophetic TV role prior to his presidential appointment, the role social media has played in the war, and more. It concludes with his speech to US Congress on 16 March.  

Zelensky: The Unlikely Ukrainian Hero Who Defied Putin and United the World will publish simultaneously in Australia and the US in April 2022. Australian distribution is through Woodslane.

Zelensky is a concise profile of the man who became the leader who captured headlines and won hearts worldwide. Covering his childhood, family history, and unusual journey from comedian and actor to the first Jewish President of Ukraine, this is the inspiring story of Volodymyr Zelensky, the Servant of the People.