Nicholas Kalashnikoff facts for kids

Nicholas Kalashnikoff (born May 17, 1888 – died August 17, 1961) was an author from Siberia who later moved to America. He wrote many books, including special ones for children, during the 1930s to 1950s. Before coming to the United States in 1924, Kalashnikoff was involved in the 1905 Russian Revolution. He also served as a captain in World War I and a general in the Russian Civil War. After moving to the U.S., he published his own story, They That Take the Sword, in 1939. He became well-known for his children's books like Jumper: The Life of a Siberian Horse and The Defender. The Defender was even recognized with a Newbery Honor in 1952, which is a big award for children's literature.

Early Life and Adventures

Nicholas Kalashnikoff was born on May 17, 1888, in Minusinsk, a place in Siberia. When he was younger, he studied important subjects like philosophy and history at Moscow University. During this time, he also became involved in the 1905 Russian Revolution, a major event in Russia's history. Because of his involvement, he had to live away from his home in Siberia as a political exile for several years, from 1905 to 1909.

Becoming a Writer

After his time as an exile, Kalashnikoff joined the army. He was a captain for Russia during World War I. Later, he became a general in Siberia during the Russian Civil War. The wars made life difficult, so in the 1920s, he lived in China for a while. In 1924, he moved to the United States.

In 1939, Nicholas Kalashnikoff started his writing career. His first book was his autobiography, They That Take the Sword, which told his own life story. He then began writing books especially for young readers. In 1944, he published Jumper: The Life of a Siberian Horse. He wrote three more children's books in the 1950s. One of his most famous children's books, The Defender, received a Newbery Honor in 1952. This award shows that his book was considered one of the best children's books of the year.

Later Life

Nicholas Kalashnikoff passed away on August 17, 1961, in New York. He was 73 years old. He was married but did not have any children.

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  Nicholas Kalashnikoff