Alexey Tolstoy wrote this novella far from Russia, longing for his homeland and the Russian language—and poured into it all the warmth of his childhood memories. “Nikita’s Childhood” invites readers into a world where carefree joy, comfort, and adventures meet you every day. A signature work for middle school readers that equally moves both students and adults.
In a difficult time, Alexey Tolstoy created the autobiographical novella “Nikita’s Childhood.” In 1917, the writer left Russia, but yearned for his homeland and the Russian language. Recalling his own childhood, Tolstoy created a small story for a children’s magazine, which later turned into a book. The story invites readers to set off for happy childhood years, where carefree joy greets you every day. The work is included in the school literature curriculum for middle grades.