Leo Tolstoy's Writings for Young Children

by Leo Tolstoy

Overview

Discover a hidden masterpiece from one of history’s greatest writers—now available in its most complete and accessible form. Leo Tolstoy’s Writings for Young Children brings to light Leo Tolstoy’s revolutionary contributions to childhood literacy, a project he considered one of his most significant achievements.

Between War and Peace and Anna Karenina, Tolstoy dedicated himself to the cause of education, opening a school on his Yasnaya Polyana estate and developing an innovative approach to teaching literacy. His carefully crafted collection of stories, fables, and historical lessons—designed to engage young minds—became a cornerstone of Russian primary education for decades. For the first time, this volume presents a complete, annotated translation of all 300 stories from Tolstoy's New ABC Book and four Primers for Reading faithfully preserving his original vision. 

A must-have for scholars of Russian literature, educators, parents, and history enthusiasts, Leo Tolstoy’s Writings for Young Children offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a literary giant as he sought to transform the way children learn to read. Whether you are a student of Tolstoy’s works or a champion of literacy, this essential volume belongs on your bookshelf.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9798887198347
Publisher:	Cherry Orchard Books
Publication date:	10/07/2025
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook

About the Author

Leo Tolstoy (1828–1910) was a Russian writer, philosopher, and social reformer, best known for his epic novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina. Born into nobility, he rejected his aristocratic upbringing to pursue a life dedicated to literature, education, and moral inquiry.

Michael R. Katz was educated at Horace Mann School, Williams College, and Oxford University. He taught Russian literature at Williams, the University of Texas, and Middlebury College. He has published two monographs and has translated over twenty-five Russian novels into English, including works by Turgenev, Dostoevsky, and Tolstoy. 

Linda Torresin is Adjunct Professor at the University of Padua and Research Assistant at the University of Verona.

Leo Tolstoy (1828–1910) was a Russian writer, philosopher, and social reformer, best known for his epic novels War and Peace and Anna Karenina. Born into nobility, he rejected his aristocratic upbringing to pursue a life dedicated to literature, education, and moral inquiry.
Michael R. Katz was educated at Horace Mann School, Williams College, and Oxford University. He taught Russian literature at Williams, the University of Texas, and Middlebury College. He has published two monographs and has translated over twenty-five Russian novels into English, including works by Turgenev, Dostoevsky, and Tolstoy.

Date of Birth:

September 9, 1828

Date of Death:

November 20, 1910

Place of Birth:

Tula Province, Russia

Place of Death:

Astapovo, Russia

Education:

Privately educated by French and German tutors; attended the University of Kazan, 1844-47

Table of Contents

Introduction. Not only a Writer, but also an Educator: Leo Tolstoy, Children, and Pedagogical Stories
Linda Torresin, Università degli Studi di Padova 

Translator’s Preface and Acknowledgements
Michael R. Katz, Middlebury College

New Azbuka: Selected Stories

First Russian Book for Reading

Second Russian Book for Reading

Third Russian Book for Reading

Fourth Russian Book for Reading

Selected Bibliography of Sources in English