The author (1863-19490) was born on the Don and his father was paymaster in a Cossack regiment of the Czar.  In University (St. Petersburg), he was a close associate of Lenin’s brother who was executed for his part in the attempt to kill Czar Alexander III in 1887.  Shortly after this, the author was expelled from the University for a proclamation concerning the Czar.  Exiled, he graduated from a second, “Marxist University” while in the far north.  He then continued to write and be involved in revolutionary activities; this book was written in 1921-23.

Although a short book, it is considered a classic of early Soviet literature and was required reading by students until the fall of the Soviet Union.  It is a typical novel of the time, reflecting “Soviet heroic realism” as it tells the story of, in 1918, the march of thousands of Red soldiers with their families across the Caucasian mountains.  Poorly equipped, often barefoot and hungry, they overcome every obstacle in their march, fighting through various White detachments until they reach their own lines.  Initially they are poorly organized, but under the leadership of a steely leader (who naturally rises from their own ranks), they find increasing cohesion and they strike fear into the hearts of their enemies.

I would recommend this little book for anyone interested in seeking to find how the Soviets viewed themselves and of course, their enemies.  The Soviets are simple, salt of the earth individuals who band together to defeat the shallow, cowardly oppressors.  One reads the book and tends to roll one’s eyes, but it reflects the times and the need for heroics in a time of defeat, starvation and lack of order.