Stalin's Children: Three Generations of Love and War by Owen Matthews

A sweeping family saga set against the backdrop of the Soviet Union's tumultuous history

In Stalin's Children, Owen Matthews tells the story of three generations of a Russian family, from the rise of Stalin to the collapse of the Soviet Union. Based on extensive research and interviews with family members, this epic narrative offers a unique perspective on one of the most important and tragic periods in modern history.

A story of love, loss, and resilience

At the heart of Stalin's Children is the story of the Alliluyev family. Nadezhda Alliluyeva was Stalin's second wife, and their children, Vasily and Svetlana, grew up in the Kremlin, surrounded by luxury and privilege. But their lives were also marked by tragedy and loss. Vasily became an alcoholic and a womanizer, and he was eventually imprisoned by his own father. Svetlana defected to the West in 1967, and she spent the rest of her life in exile.

A window into the Soviet Union

Stalin's Children also provides a fascinating glimpse into the inner workings of the Soviet Union. Matthews vividly recreates the atmosphere of terror and paranoia that prevailed during Stalin's reign, and he shows how the regime affected the lives of ordinary people. The book also explores the complex relationship between the Soviet Union and the West, and it sheds light on some of the key events of the Cold War.

A must-read for anyone interested in Russian history

Stalin's Children is a powerful and moving story of love, loss, and resilience. It is also a valuable contribution to our understanding of the Soviet Union and its impact on the world. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Russian history, the Cold War, or the human condition.

Praise for Stalin's Children

"A magisterial work of history that is both deeply moving and utterly compelling. Owen Matthews has written a classic." — Antony Beevor

"A brilliant and devastating portrait of a family and a nation. Stalin's Children is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the Soviet Union." — Anne Applebaum

"A powerful and unforgettable story of love, loss, and survival. Owen Matthews has written a masterpiece." — Simon Sebag Montefiore