Twelve Months of a Soviet Childhood

Short Stories

By: Julia Gousseva

Narrated by: Dawn Adkins

Most books about the Soviet Union focus on politics, food shortages, or lack of democratic freedoms.

This collection of stories portrays everyday experiences of a young girl growing up in the Soviet Union of the 1970s.

Childhood can be a magical and innocent time, oblivious to political regimes and problems. And that's what these 12 stories strive to convey.

©2012 Julia Gousseva (P)2015 Julia Gousseva

Captivating and informative collection of stories

Would you listen to Twelve Months of a Soviet Childhood again? Why?

I would listen to it again, just to be able to revisit and experience the author's world and gain more insight that I did during the first listen.

What did you like best about this story?

I really liked hearing the author's perspective on growing up in the Soviet Union. It was unique and interesting to learn about the day to day lives of the people. With all of the politics that permeates the news nowadays, it was a breath of fresh air to hear about regular people simply living their lives. The author did a great job of captivating the emotions and atmosphere of her childhood and she painted a vivid and realistic picture with her words.

Which scene was your favorite?

One of my favorite scenes was at the beginning of the book, when the author describes going to the palace for the traditional Christmas festivities. The details were great.

Any additional comments?

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to view the Soviet Union from a child's perspective. It is very eye-opening and enjoyable.

Slice of Soviet life

I really enjoyed this collection of short stories, because I adore anecdotal slice of life stories and that is exactly what this book is. All of the stories are quaint and innocent, and each of them are introduced with a historical backdrop to help the reader/listener get better acquainted with the era. Basically, this book is a collection of short stories that portray life during the Soviet Union through the eyes of a child, and it’s very well done. The narration is perfect too, and Dawn Adkins' performance really brought each story and character to life.

I was voluntarily provided this free review copy audiobook by the author, narrator, or publisher.

Fascinating and Interesting Look within SovietLife

What does Dawn Adkins bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Great narration that kept me fascinated and interested in the story.

Any additional comments?

Great book that opened one's eyes into Russia.


"This review copy audiobook was provided by the author, narrator, or publisher at no cost."

Interesting insights into Soviet life

With Russia in the news so much lately, this book is very timely. While it doesn't focus on politics, it provides interesting insights into the life of a Soviet kid. The story about all the Christmas ornaments was especially interesting.

Enchanting and insightful

A collection of sweet and innocent childhood stories set in the Soviet Russia, a country most of us still don't know much about. I found the writing insightful and enchanting. The narration made the stories come to life. Highly recommended!