Kossman's vivid picture of life behind the Iron Curtain and her notes at the end of the book will be useful discussion starters for classes studying political changes in Eastern Europe." - Booklist "13 short pieces...pungently convey the effects of growing up under a totalitarian regime." - Publishers Weekly "Young readers will identify readily with the impetuous Nina." - Kirkus Reviews "This child's eye view of Soviet Russia is original and, not withstanding its brevity, surprisingly perceptive both of Russian society and Nina, its engaging ... heroine. An unforgettable picture of life 'behind the border'...perfectly attuned to young readers." - Jean Fritz