What's the Best Book(s) to understand the Polish People?

Hello everyone,

I was wondering if anyone could suggest to me a book or books by a Polish author (which have been translated into English) which would best give a non-Polish person a better understanding of the Polish people, or the "Polish soul" if you prefer. To make it more clear as to what I am looking for, it is much in the same way people often say that Fyodor Dostoevsky is the best author to read to understand the "Russian soul." Is there a corresponding author in terms of Poland?

Thanks

I greatly enjoyed "Unquiet Days", a memoir by Thomas Swick. Written from the perspective of an American teacher in Warsaw during the hectic 80's. It's well-paced, and gives a good idea of the zeitgeist of the time. It not only delves into the political climate, but shares many interesting facts about cultural traditions, history, and a large section is devoted to a pilgrimage he undertook to Czestochowa. Swick obviously loves the Polish people, and it shows in his writing. Check it out: enotes.com/unquiet-days-salem/unquiet-days

Hey, buy Polish History and I mean extended version and you will get the picture you seeking.

Yes, I liked Jezioro Bodeńskie, Lake Constance, by Stanisław Dygat.

An excellent film has been made from the story:

Watch the soliloquy and you will know all about Poles:



Sorry, I forgot to add that the film received Grand Prix award at the Film Festival in Locarno in 1986.