Ideology is embedded in children's books; it is an unavoidable and widespread occurrence (Apol, 1998; Hollindale, 1988/1992). Neutrally described as a vital system of beliefs of any culture, ideology is often examined with regard to its incorporation into plots, character portrayals, and images in literary texts for children. More importantly, ideology often plays a crucial role in the construction of self-identity within an ideological system. This article focuses on the representation of Soviet ideology with regard to a shift in self-identities in Yelchin's "Breaking Stalin's Nose" and Sís's "The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain." The author focuses on the following questions: (1) What is the nature of the self-identity of each protagonist?; (2) ??What elements of Communist ideology are presented in these two books?; (3) ??How do the self-identities of the main literary protagonists change in relation to Communist ideology?; and (4) What are the major similarities and differences in their association with Soviet ideology? By using these titles in the classroom, educators in both university and K-12 settings can engage students in a critical discussion of the representation of the Soviet regime in both the verbal and illustrative parts of Yelchin's and Sís's books.