Viktor Karmalitov

After the death of his father, a sea captain, Ilka got even closer to his mother and older sister. Increasingly, he consults with them and reads his poems, laughing while closing his eyes. Zoya, who was in love with Yura Borikovsky, a student of the nautical school, gave him, with the consent of her brother, a cherished notebook with poems to look at. But the very next day, Ilka is forced to take her back, from Yura, who turned out to be a scoundrel.

Elecampane is a healing root like ginseng. According to Kuban belief, dug out in the forest on New Year's Eve, it cures any disease. Children from the Kuban village of Black Erik learn about Lenin’s illness and decide to help him.