The Russian Debutante's Handbook

Main Characters and Their Development

• Vladimir Girshkin: The main character of the book, a young Russian émigré living in New York. Vladimir works at a resettlement agency and dreams of a better life. His development in the book is tied to his search for identity and attempts to find his place in the world. Along the way, he faces various moral and ethical dilemmas, which help him better understand himself and the world around him.
• Fruma-Lipa: Vladimir's mother, who plays an important role in his life. She is a typical Russian mother, caring for her son and striving for his well-being. Her influence on Vladimir is evident throughout the book, and her character helps reveal many aspects of the protagonist's personality.
• Chechen gangster: A secondary character who involves Vladimir in criminal schemes. His appearance in Vladimir's life becomes a catalyst for many events and changes in the protagonist's life. This character symbolizes the danger and unpredictability Vladimir faces.
• Florian: A friend and mentor to Vladimir, who helps him adapt to life in America. Florian is an important character who significantly influences Vladimir's development, helping him overcome difficulties and find new opportunities.