J.K. Rowling has acknowledged and praised a Ukrainian prisoner of war who sustained hope during more than four years of captivity by reciting her Harry Potter books to fellow inmates. Marine Oleksandr Ivanov, 33, was held in the Olenivka prison, described as a "hellhole," where he shared the tales of witchcraft and wizardry.
Rowling reached out to Ivanov, who has since been released and returned to Ukraine. She expressed her happiness at his freedom and wished him "a long and happy life going forward." The author also sent him a signed copy of "Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone."
"When I was in captivity, I could never have imagined that one day I would receive a letter from J.K. Rowling," Ivanov stated. "Her books helped my fellow prisoners and me hold on to hope, and her words have become a tremendous source of support for me. I am very happy and deeply grateful."
Ivanov, a lifelong fan of the Harry Potter series who has themed tattoos from the books, was captured while defending the Illich Steel Plant as part of the 36th Marine Brigade. His last contact with his family was on April 12, 2022.
At Olenivka and four other Russian penal colonies, Ivanov began reciting the Harry Potter books to find solace. When he completed the series, other inmates requested he start again from the beginning. He reportedly described his experience in Russian prisons as "worse than Azkaban," the fictional wizarding prison.
During the prisoner exchange that led to his release, his wife Nelli, their son Demyd, and friends were present, reportedly hoping for his return and bringing Harry Potter-themed items, including a wand.
Ivanov sustained injuries before his capture and is currently undergoing rehabilitation following his ordeal.