Alexey Tolstoy’s autobiographical novella “Nikita’s Childhood” is aptly called the happiest book in the world: it reflects the brightest boyhood memories of first love and a kiss, the smell of a Christmas tree and presents, Easter and fragrant Easter cakes—but, most importantly, the book conveys a feeling of absolute happiness, security, and openness of life. All of that is possible only in carefree childhood.