The book by Vladimir Vysotsky's cousin, Irena Alekseevna Vysotskaya, is dedicated to the development of a poet and artist, an idol of several generations, the history of his family, friends and foes, love and betrayal, successes and disappointments. The book includes about 200 unique photographs and documents, almost all they are published for the first time. It contains many unknown episodes from Vysotsky’s childhood, allowing us to understand the origins of the formation of his personality, character and creativity. The book will be of interest to both long-time fans of Vysotsky and anyone interested in the work of the poet, bard and actor.