Cztery sztandary, jeden adres historie ze Spisza

The book is widely praised as an excellent and engaging work that masterfully collects previously scattered historical and cultural narratives about the Spisz region. Readers found it hard to put down due to its captivating storytelling, which seamlessly integrates a wealth of historical and cultural knowledge with personal accounts of the region's inhabitants. A significant strength highlighted is the author's objective and critical approach to various nationalistic narratives, balanced with an empathetic understanding of the people and their often conflicting perspectives. The book is lauded for presenting history in an absorbing manner, enriched with fascinating facts, historical documents, and particularly the stories of eyewitnesses, effectively transporting readers through different places and eras within Spisz. Its precise research and clear language, which beautifully convey the interconnected, multicultural past of the region, are also consistently commended.

While generally well-received, one reviewer noted a shift in the book's focus, observing that the initial abundance of historical facts gradually diminished. A primary criticism leveled against the book is a perceived "Polocentric" viewpoint from the author. This perspective, according to the reviewer, could lead a reader unfamiliar with the region to believe that Spisz primarily extends only to Kežmarok and that a substantial portion of its territory lies within Poland, suggesting an imbalance in geographical and national emphasis.

Overall, this book appears to be a highly recommended and thought-provoking historical reportage that offers a deep dive into the complex and multicultural tapestry of the Spisz region. It is particularly suited for readers interested in Central European history, regional studies, and the dynamics of diverse communities. Those who appreciate a nuanced, empathetic, and objective exploration of historical narratives, especially concerning border regions and their inhabitants, will likely find this book profoundly rewarding. It promises to be an enlightening read for anyone seeking to understand the intricate historical and cultural interconnections that define this unique part of the world, potentially inspiring a desire to explore the region firsthand.