The Prodigal of Leningrad -- Daniel Taylor, Paperback

In this World War II historical novel set during the harrowing siege of Leningrad, Daniil Aslanov, a docent at the Hermitage Museum, gives tours of empty frames. As the city starves, he battles a secret shame, while his grandfather--a persecuted Orthodox priest exiled to the Gulag--clings to faith.

While bombs fall and starvation grips the city, Daniil Aslanov continues to lead tours of empty frames through the Hermitage Museum. Although the museum's masterpieces have been hidden away for safekeeping, their presence lingers in memory and meaning.

Daniil's grandfather, an Orthodox priest exiled for decades to the brutal Gulag, embraces suffering as his sacred calling, thanking God for being allowed to minister to those around him. As Leningrad's people perish, Daniil finds himself drawn to the story behind Rembrandt's painting, "The Return of the Prodigal Son."

Beautifully told and based on real historical events, including the extraordinary wartime tours of the Hermitage's empty galleries, The Prodigal of Leningrad is a stirring and unforgettable story of human resilience, and a profound meditation on art, faith, forgiveness and healing.

Readers of The Nightingale, A Gentleman in Moscow, and City of Thieves, and all those interested in World War II history will welcome this important contribution to the genre.

Author: Daniel Taylor
Publisher: Paraclete Press (MA)
Published: 01/27/2026
Pages: 256
Binding Type: Paperback
ISBN: 9798893480221

Review Citation(s):
Library Journal 11/01/2025 pg. 71

About the Author

Daniel Taylor (Ph.D., Emory University) is the author of eighteen books. He has also worked on several Bible translations, including the New Living Translation and The Expanded Bible. He speaks frequently at conferences, colleges, retreats, and churches on a variety of topics. Dr. Taylor is also co-founder of The Legacy Center, an organization devoted to helping individuals and organizations identify and preserve the values and stories that have shaped their lives.

Taylor taught literature and writing for almost forty years, primarily as a Professor at Bethel University in St. Paul MN. His books include a series of four mystery novels, the first entitled Death Comes for the Deconstructionist. His most recent nonfiction book is Believing Again: Stories of Leaving and Returning to Faith. He was a contributing editor of Books and Culture. Dr. Taylor is married and the father of four adult children. His website is www.wordtaylor.com