The Death of Stalin

Gr 10 Up—The cinematic quality of this graphic novel is evident from its first page, which portrays a cast of secretive, scheming politicians; a dying tyrant; and messy family politics. All the while, the fate of communism hangs in the balance. The visuals depict long, darkened hallways and conversations observed from far above, regimented order and chaos coming in equal measure. Shadowy artwork with the slightest sparks of Soviet red adds to the spy film feel. But for all the intrigue, the story is simple. Joseph Stalin has a debilitating stroke: his henchmen scramble to deal with it, conceal the circumstances of his death, silence his family, and keep their tenuous power over the Russian people in place without their figurehead. Some sex, violence, and strong language make this an appropriate read for more mature teenage readers.