48 pages • 1 hour read
Eugene YelchinBreaking Stalin's Nose
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2011A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Breaking Stalin's Nose by Eugene Yelchin follows 10-year-old Sasha Zaichik in Soviet Union-era Moscow, as his dreams of becoming a Young Pioneer are shattered when State Security officers arrest his father. Over a tumultuous day at school, Sasha faces challenges that force him to grapple with his beliefs and loyalty to Stalin. While exploring themes of disillusionment and broken identities, the novel contains depictions of violent repression and antisemitism.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Eugene Yelchin's Breaking Stalin's Nose offers a powerful, approachable narrative on the impact of Stalinist Russia on a young boy. Praised for its historical insight and emotional depth, the book effectively conveys fear and hope. However, some critics believe the plot resolution is too abrupt for younger readers. Overall, it's a compelling introduction to a complex period.
Who Should Read Breaking Stalin's Nose?
Readers who appreciate historical fiction with themes of courage and resilience, particularly those who enjoyed Number the Stars by Lois Lowry or The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne, will find Breaking Stalin's Nose by Eugene Yelchin compelling. This book is ideal for middle-grade readers interested in Soviet history and personal narratives.
RecommendedReading Age
9-12yearsLexile Level
670LBook Details
Historical Fiction
Coming of Age / Bildungsroman
Russian Literature
Values/Ideas: Power & Greed
Life/Time: Coming of Age
Society: Politics & Government
Education
History: World