Picture an Armenian storyteller who spins tales of mischief, magic, and resilience—meet Narine Abgaryan! Born in 1971 in the small town of Berd, Armenia, this Russian-based author of Armenian descent has captivated readers worldwide with her heartfelt stories. From the playful adventures of her Manyunya trilogy to the poignant magical realism of Three Apples Fell from the Sky, Abgaryan’s work bridges cultures, blending Armenian heritage with universal themes of love, loss, and hope.
With a voice that’s both whimsical and profound, Abgaryan has earned literary acclaim, including the prestigious Yasnaya Polyana Award, and a spot on The Guardian’s list of Europe’s brightest authors in 2020. Her stories, often rooted in her homeland’s turbulent history, invite readers into vibrant worlds where humor and humanity shine. Ready to dive into her enchanting tales? Let’s explore Narine Abgaryan’s journey!
The Making of Narine Abgaryan
Narine Abgaryan was born on January 14, 1971, in Berd, Armenia, to a doctor father and a teacher mother. The eldest of five siblings, she grew up in a lively household steeped in Armenian and Russian influences—her paternal grandfather was an Armenian refugee, while her maternal grandmother hailed from Russia’s Arkhangelsk region. A lover of music and books, Abgaryan studied piano and later graduated from Yerevan Brusov University in 1993 with a degree in Russian language and literature teaching.
After moving to Moscow in 1993, Abgaryan worked as an accountant and seller before her writing career took off. Her breakthrough came through blogging on LiveJournal, where her charming stories about a mischievous girl named Manyunya caught the eye of writer Lara Gall. This led to a publishing deal, and Abgaryan’s literary star began to rise, blending her Armenian roots with a global appeal.
Narine Abgaryan’s Unforgettable Stories
Abgaryan’s bibliography is a treasure trove of vivid storytelling. Her debut, Manyunya (2010), is an autobiographical trilogy about an 11-year-old troublemaker in Berd. With over 100,000 copies sold, this beloved series, infused with humor and nostalgia, won the Manuscript of the Year Award and inspired a TV series and an animated adaptation. Its playful tone captures the joys and chaos of childhood, resonating with readers of all ages.
For adult readers, Three Apples Fell from the Sky (2015) is a masterpiece of magical realism. Set in the Armenian village of Maran, this novel weaves folklore, love, and second chances against a backdrop of historical tragedy. Translated into 27 languages and awarded the Yasnaya Polyana Award in 2016, it’s a testament to Abgaryan’s ability to craft universal stories. Her 2025 release, To Go On Living, a collection of 31 linked short stories, explores resilience in post-war Armenia, earning praise for its compassion and hope.
Abgaryan’s style is a unique blend of whimsy, folklore, and stark realism. Her stories often draw on Armenian traditions, with characters navigating war, loss, and community. Whether writing for children or adults, she infuses her work with humor and heart, making even the heaviest themes feel light and uplifting.
Why Narine Abgaryan Matters
Narine Abgaryan’s impact lies in her ability to weave Armenian culture into stories that resonate globally. Her work preserves the spirit of a nation marked by conflict, from the 1988 earthquake to the Nagorno-Karabakh war, while celebrating human resilience. By addressing themes like war’s lasting scars and women’s strength, she offers a voice to the marginalized, earning admiration from readers and critics alike.
Her influence extends beyond books—Manyunya’s adaptations have brought Armenian stories to screens, while her novels, translated into dozens of languages, introduce global audiences to Armenia’s rich heritage. Abgaryan’s storytelling reminds us that even in the darkest times, hope and humor can light the way.
- Born: January 14, 1971, Berd, Armenia
- Key Works: Manyunya trilogy, Three Apples Fell from the Sky, To Go On Living
- Awards: Manuscript of the Year (2011), Yasnaya Polyana Award (2016), Alexander Grin Award (2015)
- Notable Recognition: Named one of Europe’s brightest authors by The Guardian (2020)
Ready to fall in love with Narine Abgaryan’s magical worlds? Grab Three Apples Fell from the Sky or the Manyunya trilogy and let her vibrant storytelling sweep you away!