TABOOED THEMES IN MODERN RUSSIAN CHILDREN’S LITERATURE

Abstract

The article examines the evolution of taboo topics in Russian children’s literature of the 21st century. It analyzes the transition from the Soviet educational model, which operated within ideological constraints, to a new paradigm, actively developed by Belarusian writers A. Zhvalevsky and E. Pasternak. Based on the material of their main works (“I Want to Go to School!,” “While I’m on the Edge,” “Look Here,” “The 52nd of February,” “Death to the Dead Souls!”, “Minus One,” etc.), a conscious rejection of taboos on discussing complex problems of adolescence, such as drug addiction, suicide, bullying, sexuality, and death, is demonstrated. The conclusion is made about the necessity of a direct and honest dialogue with the young reader for literature to fulfill not only an entertaining and educational but also a socio-therapeutic function.