Sell Us the Rope
Sell Us the Rope by Stephen May, published by Bloomsbury USA on March 7, 2023, is a historical fiction novel that delves into the early life of Joseph Stalin. Set in London in 1907, the narrative unfolds during the 5th Congress of the Russian Communist Party, where a young Stalin, known as Koba, navigates the complexities of political alliances and personal relationships. This edition spans 240 pages and is presented in English.
Readers will find a portrayal of Stalin’s formative years, highlighting his interactions with prominent figures such as Lenin, Trotsky, and Rosa Luxemburg, as well as a Finnish activist named Elli Vuokko. The story captures Koba’s strategic maneuvers and the risks he takes as he begins to shape his future within the party. Through this exploration, the book offers insights into the development of a political mind that would eventually lead to a significant historical legacy, set against the backdrop of World War II and the tumultuous events of the 20th century.
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“Sell Us the Rope is original, adept and confident, with the spry sardonic voice of the new historical fiction: it is entertaining and in the end, deeply moving.” -Hilary Mantel
“A deeply satisfying novel. Incisive, inventive, frequently very funny.” –The Guardian
In London in 1907, a decade before the revolution, young Stalin has yet to achieve the power, nor acted on the ruthlessness, that will define his legacy. Instead Koba, as he is known, arrives in London for the 5th Congress of the Russian Communist Part where he-and many of his fellow Bolsheviks-are only allowed to remain as a nonvoting witness. But his inability to vote does not limit his ability to act, and Stalin quickly begins forging alliances with the likes of Lenin, Trotsky, Rosa Luxemburg-and a vivacious Finnish activist named Elli Vuokko.
As the Congress progresses, Koba begins to take daring risks-with the young Finnish idealist, with his past relationships to the Russian government, and with his future in the party. But as he manipulates those loyal to him and seeks to discover who he will remain loyal to in return, we see a great political mind in the works, and witness the development of a dictator.
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