The Blue Cup facts for kids
"The Blue Cup" 1985 cover
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| Author | Arkady Gaidar |
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| Original title | Голубая чашка |
| Country | Union of Soviet Socialist Republics |
| Language | Russian |
| Genre | Children's literature |
| Publisher | Detskaya Literatura, Moscow |
| Media type | |
The Blue Cup (which in Russian is Голубая чашка) is a short story from 1936. It was written by a Soviet author named Arkady Gaidar (1904 - 1941). The story first appeared in Pioneer magazine in January 1936. Later that year, it became a book with pictures by Boris Dekhteryov. Arkady Gaidar thought highly of "The Blue Cup". He even listed it as one of his best works in his 1937 autobiography.
What is "The Blue Cup" About?
This story caused a lot of discussion among parents, teachers, and librarians. Some people thought the story was a bit confusing or too grown-up for kids. However, many others loved it! They said children enjoyed the feeling of love and happiness in the story. Readers felt connected to Svetlana and her father. They liked how the story showed freedom and standing up to unfairness. Grown-ups also saw deeper meanings in the story. Everyone agreed it had a strong message about loving your country.
The Story's Main Adventure
The story begins with a father and his six-year-old daughter, Svetlana. They arrive at their summer house, called a dacha, feeling playful and happy. But Svetlana's mother, Marusya, is not in a good mood. She gives them many small chores to do. Then, she leaves to meet an old pilot friend at the train station.
The next morning, Marusya gets upset. She blames her husband and daughter for breaking her blue cup. It was in the storage room. Feeling unfairly accused, the father and Svetlana decide to leave the house. They start an exciting and unexpected day-long adventure.
A Day Full of Surprises
During their adventure, they meet two boys who are arguing. One boy calls the other a mean name. The father helps them calm down. Later, they accidentally walk into a military training area. There is a lot of shooting happening, but they are safe. They also lose their gingerbread cookies to a four-year-old boy. But as a reward, he gives them a cute kitten! Their day also includes a scary moment. They almost drown in a marsh, which is a wet, muddy area.
As evening comes, they return home. Marusya is very worried but happy to see them safe. They spend a lovely evening together. Svetlana, who had felt sad earlier, says that "life's a good thing, after all." The mystery of who broke the blue cup is never solved.
