About This Book
Breaking Stalin's Nose is a poignant historical novel set in Moscow during the oppressive Stalinist era, following 10-year-old Sasha Zaichik. Sasha, a fervent believer in Communism and Joseph Stalin, is on the cusp of joining the Young Pioneers when his world is turned upside down by the sudden arrest of his high-ranking father. Left homeless and bewildered, Sasha's journey to understand what has happened forces him to re-evaluate his deeply held beliefs about justice, loyalty, and the state. The book masterfully explores themes of political persecution, disillusionment, and the courage to stand up for one's conscience, all through the eyes of a child. It's a powerful story about growing up in a totalitarian regime and finding one's own moral compass amidst fear and propaganda.
In the Stalinist era of the Soviet Union, ten-year-old Sasha idolizes his father, a devoted Communist, but when police take his father away and leave Sasha homeless, he is forced to examine his own perceptions, values, and beliefs.
Character Death
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Sasha's understanding of Stalin and the Soviet Union change throughout the book? What causes these changes?
2
What does it mean to be brave in Sasha's world? Can you think of examples of bravery from Sasha, Borka, or Vovka?
3
The book shows how fear can make people act in ways they might not otherwise. How do different characters react to fear?
4
What role does friendship play in Sasha's journey, even when it's complicated or difficult?
5
If you were Sasha, what would you have done when you realized your father was arrested? What choices would you have made?
6
How does the book show the difference between what people say they believe and what they truly do?
7
What lessons can we learn from Sasha's story about standing up for what is right, even when it's hard?
External Reviews
Awards
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