Rumpalla

Through the lens of a journalist, the narrative captures the author's transformative journeys in Albania during the late 1980s, marking a pivotal time as the country transitioned from strict Communist rule to democracy. As the first American reporter allowed entry in thirty years, he documents significant changes while exploring personal connections, including his father's abandoned village and the legacy of World War II. His experiences also include aiding Kosovar refugees during the 1999 conflict, along with engaging with both peasants and political leaders, offering a rich tapestry of Albanian life.