Vladimir Karpovich Zheleznikov (1925–2015) invariably wrote about childhood and youth, but in such a way that his books captivate readers of any age. His characters often act without much reflection - as their nature requires. Nature may require “unjustified cruelty,” and perhaps even self-sacrifice. But sometimes a special moment of insight suddenly occurs and everyone sees everything - including themselves - in the true light, surprisingly clearly, without any embellishment. Then the despised “scarecrow” and the funny eccentric from the sixth “B” suddenly turn into wonderful aliens, bearers of good, and yesterday’s hero turns out to be a traitor and a coward... Zheleznikov’s stories have been filmed many times. The film “Scarecrow”, directed by Rolan Bykov in 1983, with young Kristina Orbakaite in the title role, became truly cult.