Tom Thumb (Mal’chik s pal’chik), 1957. Russian Folk Tale Retold by A. N. Tolstoy. In Russian.

Мальчик с пальчик. Русская народная сказка в пересказе А. Н. Толстого. / Художник Д. Хайкин. Серия: Мои первые книжки.
Москва : Детгиз (Государственное издательство детской литературы), 1957.
16 с. : ил. Мягкая издательская обложка, обычный формат.
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Tom Thumb (Mal’chik s pal’chik). Russian Folk Tale Retold by A. N. Tolstoy. / Artist D. Khaikin. Series: My First Books.
Moscow : Detgiz (State Publishing House of Children's Literature), 1957.
16 pp. : b/w ill. Softcover, standard format. In Russian.

This 1957 edition of the classic Russian folk tale "Tom Thumb" (Mal’chik s pal’chik) is a quintessential artifact of Soviet children's literature from the "Thaw" era. Published as part of the popular "My First Books" (Moi pervye knizhki) series, this volume features the authoritative retelling by Alexei Tolstoy, whose adaptations of Russian folklore are celebrated for their rhythmic prose and preservation of authentic peasant vernacular.
The book is illustrated by David Khaikin (b. 1927), a prominent figure in Soviet book graphics. These early black-and-white illustrations showcase Khaikin’s masterful line work and his ability to create expressive, dynamic characters even within a minimalist palette. His depiction of the tiny, clever hero outsmarting his giant adversaries captures the wonder and suspense of the tale, making it accessible to the youngest readers.
The "My First Books" series was a staple of Soviet childhood, designed to be durable yet affordable, bringing high-quality literature and art into every household. This 1957 printing by Detgiz reflects the high editorial standards of the period, where even the most modest paperbacks were handled by leading writers and artists.
For collectors of Soviet children's books, admirers of David Khaikin’s graphics, and historians of Russian folklore, this volume is a nostalgic and valuable find. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of the "small but mighty" motif in Russian culture and the excellence of mid-century book design.