Literature that changed lives: books from international guests in the library exposition of the National Centre RUSSIA

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International participants of the "Inventing the Future" International Symposium have donated books to the library exposition of the National Centre RUSSIA — books that had a profound impact on them. The guests noted that these works played a key role in shaping their worldview and could serve as an inspiration for Russian readers.

Architect and founder of James Law Cybertecture, James Law (China), donated a copy of Herbert Wells' "The Time Machine." He recalled how, as a child, he found this book in a library without realizing that it would define his future.

"Reading 'The Time Machine' was more than just a childhood adventure — it was a turning point that laid the foundation for my career as a futuristic architect," James Law noted.

According to him, the novel influenced his philosophy and shaped his belief that architecture should strengthen human connections rather than isolate people.

John Molera, Director of Policy and Research at DD Geopolitics (USA), donated two books: Arthur Clarke's "Childhood's End" and Boris Groys' "The Communist Postscript." As a child, he was fascinated by Clarke's novel, particularly the idea of humanity transitioning to a new level of development.

"Even at such a young age, I approved of the efforts of the 'Overlords' in guiding human evolution and striving toward a unified goal," said John Molera.

Later, his perspective was broadened by Groys' work on communism in the post-Soviet era, which he considers essential for understanding a multipolar world. 

Majed Al-Mansoori, Executive Director of the Museum of the Future in the UAE, donated books by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum: "My Story," "My Vision," and "Reflections on Happiness and Positive Thinking." He noted that the words of the Sheikh, who transformed Dubai into a megacity, continue to inspire him: "The future belongs to those who can imagine it, design it, and bring it to life. It is not something you wait for, but rather something you create yourself."

Honorary Consul of the Russian Federation in Canada, John Stewart Durrant, donated "The Call of the Wild" by Jack London and "The Empire Annual for Boys." He shared that these books belonged to his grandfather and were significant to him in his youth.

Italian science fiction writer Roberto Quaglia donated Robert Sheckley’s "The Alchemical Marriage of Alistair Crompton" to the National Centre RUSSIA. This book marked the beginning of his fascination with Sheckley’s work, which later influenced his own writing career.

Serbian science fiction writer Goran Skrobonja gifted a copy of Kurt Vonnegut’s "Slaughterhouse-Five," emphasizing the novel’s impact on shaping his literary style and worldview.

The book donation took place as part of the First International Symposium "Inventing the Future", aimed at strengthening international cooperation and dialogue between nations.

The Second International Symposium "Inventing the Future" will be held at the National Centre RUSSIA in October 2025. The first meeting of the Symposium's moderators has already taken place, bringing together representatives of state partner organizations of the National Centre RUSSIA, science fiction writers, and literary scholars. Experts discussed key, in-demand support measures for the science fiction genre and topics for discussion at the upcoming Symposium.

The library exposition at the National Centre RUSSIA began taking shape during the First International Symposium "Inventing the Future." The first editions were donated to the library by international guests.