The Children’s Spot
A snapshot review of a book related to the Non-fiction Feature
Also in this Monthly Bulletin:
The Non-fiction Feature: The Zookeepers’ War by J.W. Mohnhaupt
The Product Spot: Association of Zoos and Aquariums
The Pithy Take
Author Eugene Yelchin grew up in the Soviet Union and, in his author’s note, explains that Joseph Stalin’s State Security executed, imprisoned, or exiled over 20 million people. To arrest so many innocent people, crimes had to be invented.
In Breaking Stalin’s Nose, young Sasha Zaichik beams with pride as he hopes to join the Soviet Young Pioneers, but his life soon unravels when his father is arrested. The book covers only two days, but relays the intensity of fear that people—especially children—experienced in the Soviet Union, where nobody could be trusted.
Frankly, Zaichik, I used to have great respect for your dad. Two years ago, when he submitted a report on the anti-Communist activity of a certain foreign national, who happened to be his wife—I’m talking about your mother here—he acted as a true Communist, willing to make a personal sacrifice for the good of the common cause.
Breaking Stalin’s Nose
Author: Eugene Yelchin
Publisher: Square Fish
176 pages | 2013
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