Escape!

by John Reid

Based on Leon Trotsky`s real-life imprisonment in Amherst, Nova Scotia, this adventure tells the tale of 13-year-old Russian emigré Alexi Gertoff and his chance meeting with Lev, Leon Trotsky`s son. In the spring of 1917, Lev has come to Amherst to help his father escape from the wartime prison camp and Alexi becomes involved in this dangerous attempt to reunite Trotsky with his family. Following the fast-paced trip of these two young men, this tale is full of unpredictable twists that make for an absorbing read full of suspense and adventure.

128 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2005

About the author

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Reviews

[Zoë Roy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Escape by John G. Reid is an excellent young adult novel, a much easier read compared to the author's academic works. I've learned an amazing historical fact that one of the leaders of the Russian October Revolution in 1917, Leon Trosky, was jailed in the wartime prison camp in Amherst, Nova Scotia. The history of the modern world opens a small corner of its vast tapestries in this small town in Canada. Alexi and his family help Lev in his attempt to rescue his father Leon Trosky from the prison camp. More than a half century later two elderly men, both named Lev Trosky, appear in Amherst, Nova Scotia. Who is Alexi? and who is real Lev? The reader could find the answer from the story.