[Although The Adventures of Strong Vanya] is an original adventure story, nevertheless it contains many of the themes, the prohibitions, the figures and the gestures of Russian lore. It is distinguished by acute characterisation that rounds out minor as well as major actors; the dialogue is adroitly colloquial; and the banana-skin humour that appeals so much to children is captured with a relished subtlety. Most important, the story is written with a complete conviction in its inner logic, and the style of language is like the technique of a fine musician—so deceptively simple it might even go unnoticed. (pp. 22-3)

Ralph Lavender, "Myths, Legend & Folk Tales: 'The Adventures of Strong Vanya'," in Children's Book Review (© 1971 Five Owls Press Ltd.; all rights reserved), Vol. 1, No. 1, February, 1971, pp. 22-3.