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Чучело. Повести (The Scarecrow: Coming-of-Age Novels)

This collection features two powerful novels by Vladimir Zheleznikov, “Чучело” (The Scarecrow) and “Чучело-2. Игры мотыльков” (The Scarecrow 2: Games of Moths), exploring the complex and often painful realities of adolescence.

Themes of Betrayal, Hate, and Growing Up

The characters in these stories frequently accuse each other of betrayal. Teenagers turn on each other and on adults, fueled by a potent and destructive hatred. One of the first lessons they learn as they leave childhood behind is the bitter taste of animosity. Why does this happen? Who is to blame, if anyone? Or is this simply a natural stage of development, a consequence of hormonal changes and the challenges of teenage life?

A Thought-Provoking Exploration of Adolescence

These coming-of-age stories don’t offer easy answers to these difficult questions. Instead, they challenge readers to reflect on the complexities of adolescence, the nature of betrayal, and the roots of teenage angst. Zheleznikov’s work is a powerful exploration of the emotional landscape of young people navigating the turbulent waters of growing up.

Target Audience

Recommended for middle school and high school readers, “Чучело. Повести” (The Scarecrow: Coming-of-Age Novels) is a compelling read for anyone interested in understanding the challenges and triumphs of youth. It’s a must-read for those seeking insightful young adult fiction that tackles difficult themes with honesty and depth.

Unique Selling Points

• Explores universal themes of betrayal, hate, and growing up.
• Offers a realistic and unflinching portrayal of teenage life.
• Encourages critical thinking and self-reflection.
• A classic of Russian young adult literature.

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