Valkin's Friends and Sails

The hero of the story is dreamy and withdrawn Valka Begunov. The neighborhood kids adore him, considering him brave, courageous, and talented. However, due to his character, Valka keeps everyone at arm's length at school, which constantly gets him into trouble. The boy draws wonderfully but shyly hides his sketchbook. And there, on every page, are his most cherished dreams: marvelous ships that Valka dreams of.
Thoughtful, subtle story by Vladislav Krapivin about friendship and loneliness, about the need to protect one's inner boundaries, but at the same time learning to trust those around you. For younger and middle school ages.