The librarian in me wanted to check out the 2012 Newberry Honor and Medal books, of which this one. I *did enjoy this. The artwork provides a sinister feel and perfect fit with the oppressive tone and storyline. The plot revolves around Sasha, whose father, a Secret Service guard for Stalin, has been hauled off--neither he nor we are sure why (except that *we have the benefit of knowing both that "these things" happen in totalitarian regimes AND how Stalin's reign turns out). While Sasha's dream has been to join the Young Pioneers, we see his enthusiasm lessened as the story draws to an end, and his presumably orphaned world turned upside down. Occasionally, I wonder if some children's book which draw accolades would appeal more to youth or adults. I admit that I have this response to Breaking Stalin's Nose. I am not sure if some younger readers would "get" the naivete in Sasha's previous train of thought. But, then, I do not know. I could be totally wrong. I am eager for my 11 year old to read it and set me straight. As I mentioned, the artwork is awesome.