The Genius Under the Table: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain
on Goodreads (2,197)
What’s inside...
With a masterful mix of comic timing and disarming poignancy, Newbery Honoree Eugene Yelchin offers a memoir of growing up in Cold War Russia. In the tiny apartment he shares with his family, Yevgeny navigates drama, family secrets, and a KGB spy in his own kitchen, all while trying to fulfill his parents' dream for him to become a national hero. However, without the traits of a star athlete or legendary ballet dancer, Yevgeny finds solace in his little pencil and doodles under the dining table, ultimately discovering that his drawings could change everything. 'The Genius Under the Table' is an amusing yet profound recount of a young boy's quest for identity amid familial expectations and political tensions.
Age
10-13
Length
208 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Eugene Yelchin
Eugene'S Mother
Victor Yelchin
Eugene'S Father
Discussion points
What do you think life was like for the characters growing up behind the Iron Curtain? How does it compare to your life?
Can you describe a moment in the book where the main character showed resilience or creativity?
How do the family dynamics in the story affect the characters? What role do you think family plays in shaping our lives?
What lessons do you think the book teaches about freedom and individuality?
How did the setting influence the story? What would change if it was set in today's world?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting your discussion, encourage your child to think about how different life circumstances can affect a person's choices and opportunities.
Use supportive and open-ended language to encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book.
Discuss the historical context of the story, possibly supplementing with images or articles about life behind the Iron Curtain to deepen the child's understanding.
Connect themes from the book to your child’s experiences, asking questions like, 'Have you ever felt like you had to find creative solutions like the main character did?'
Highlight the importance of empathy by asking your child to consider what challenges the characters faced and how they might have felt.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The protagonist navigates a challenging childhood behind the Iron Curtain, showcasing determination and adaptability.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance and resilience in overcoming challenges at school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Value of creativity
Explanation: Amidst restrictions, the main character finds solace and expression through drawing, highlighting the importance of creative outlets.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and nurture their own creative talents as a way to express emotions and solve problems.
Example Lesson: Importance of family support
Explanation: Despite external pressures, the family in the story remains a crucial support network, demonstrating the strength of familial bonds.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to appreciate and rely on their family for support during difficult times.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical contexts
Explanation: The setting provides a backdrop that educates about life under a repressive regime, offering historical insights.
Real-World Application: Helps children understand and appreciate different historical periods and their impacts on people's lives.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Exposure to the struggles faced by the protagonist can foster empathy towards others who are in difficult situations.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be empathetic towards classmates and friends who may be dealing with hardships.