Sergey Mikhalkov ​

Sergey Vladimirovich Mikhalkov was a Russian author of children's books & satirical fables, librettist of the Soviet Union's & Russia's national anthems. His children's books, loved by generations of Russian readers, have often been adapted into films and animations.

Quick Facts ​

• His children's poem Dyadya Stepa—a policeman, about a very tall (nearly 7 feet tall) and kind man, is one of the most famous poems in Russia.
• His works have been published in many languages and have been awarded the highest national prizes.
• He was twice awarded the title Hero of Socialist Labor.
• Was the author of the lyrics to the National Anthem of the Soviet Union and the Anthem of the Russian Federation.
• Awarded the Order of Lenin four times, the Order of the Red Banner, the Order of the October Revolution, numerous other decorations and medals, and had three Lenin Prizes and two State Prizes of the USSR.

Background ​

Mikhalkov was born in 1913 in Moscow, Russia. His family was closely associated with the cultural and intellectual elite of the time. His father was a famed painter and his mother was a poet. He began his writing career in the 1930s.

During the World War II, he served in the Red Army and his writing often reflected Russian patriotism and socialist realism. Mikhalkov’s most famous work is probably the lyrics for the National Anthem of the Soviet Union, which were later adapted for the Russian Federation’s national anthem. Apart from this, he was a successful children's writer, penning several stories and poems beloved by many generations of Russian kids. Mikhalkov died in 2009 at the age of 96.

Writing Style and Impact ​

Sergey Mikhalkov was a poet, writer of children's literature and satirical works, and was known for his fable-like style and simple, accessible language. His works often had themes of patriotism and morality, reflecting the political ideologies of his time. Mikhalkov was widely celebrated for his contributions to children's literature in Russia and providing a sense of national identity through his poems and stories. His work was influential in shaping Soviet and post-Soviet popular culture.

Notable Works ​

• Uncle Styopa (1935)
• Two Friends (1940)
• Moidodir (1954)
• GAI Markin (1976)
• The Month of June, Birthday (1983)