An intriguing, intelligent, and humorous contemporary novel about modern everyday life – this is actually a rarity in our native literary scene, especially from a Polish author. That's why I was all the more eager and pleased to delve into the latest book by the popular and esteemed writer Paweł Beręsewicz, titled The Whisper Campaign [Szeptane], which fits perfectly into the aforementioned literary description...

The main protagonist of the story is Filip, a Warsaw high school student who, along with three classmates, decides to raise funds for the dream Champions League final, scheduled to take place in the capital. Initially, the boys take jobs handing out flyers to passers-by – a simple task full of unusual events, but ultimately not yielding the expected profits. Therefore, Filip gets involved with a firm engaged in so-called 'whisper marketing' online, which turns out to be not only interesting and straightforward but also highly exciting. However, the brutality of the virtual world soon makes itself known, impacting the stability of the friendship between the boys...

Paweł Beręsewicz's latest novel offers a very intelligent and impressive blend of what is enjoyable with what is important and useful. The enjoyment comes from the story of the young heroes' fates, adventures, problems, and emotions as they tangibly encounter the adult world – and the worst aspects of it – for the first time. The usefulness manifests in the author's highlighting of the threats posed by modern internet technologies, which enable anonymous lies, slander, and even crimes. Most importantly, this valuable educational lesson takes the form not of a moralizing lecture, but of a vibrant, captivating, and interesting story about the lives and problems of contemporary Polish teenagers...

A great strength of this book is undoubtedly its relevance. It's a story about our Polish reality, seen through the eyes of Polish teenagers, which automatically allows young readers not only to believe in it but also to identify with its characters. Filip, Jacek, Bartek, and the rest are typical Polish teens with their own small problems and troubles, which often escalate into major tragedies. It's truly impossible not to like them, empathize with their situation, or wish them the best, even when they make not entirely sensible decisions. This is also an authentic portrayal of our daily reality, shady marketing inserts, and the absolute chaos of the online world...

The plot of this novel is presented in a very interesting, impressive, and colorful manner, providing us with a wealth of adventure, impressions, emotions, and a hefty dose of good humor. There is a strong element of comedy, which, however, gives way to a complex intrigue as the chapters progress – containing even elements of thriller and crime, although the main genre remains a youth adventure novel. It's engaging, often surprising, and highly atmospheric, with a finale that leaves a distinctly bittersweet taste... One thing is certain – reading this book doesn't allow for a single moment of boredom!

It's also essential to highlight the educational aspect of this story, primarily relating to the aforementioned threats from the internet, which serves as a 'window to the world' but one from which it's very easy to lean out too far... This is a crucial aspect of the book, as it helps young readers realize how easily others can be influenced online, and consequently, learn to distrust those who should never be trusted. It's also a beautiful narrative about the strength and value of friendship – something we must always cherish, as it can be lost very easily and quickly...

The Whisper Campaign [Szeptane] is an interesting, important book that stands out significantly among contemporary Polish offerings for young people. It delivers emotions, reading pleasure, and great enjoyment, alongside an incredibly valuable life lesson which, thanks to its warm language and realism, will certainly resonate with and reach the reader's consciousness.

Paweł Beręsewicz
A writer beloved for the wit and intellectual delight he delivers to both young and adult readers in every new book. The recipient of numerous accolades, including the Kornel Makuszyński Award, the Warsaw Literary Prize, the Polish IBBY Book of the Year Award, and the Child-Friendly Book distinction. A two-time winner of the Astrid Lindgren Literary Competition. He lives in Warsaw.