FAQ
What is this book about?
It is a first-hand account of daily life in the USSR under socialism. It compares that experience with modern pro-socialist ideas in Western countries and asks what those ideas might cost in real life.
Who is this book for?
It is for readers curious about socialism beyond theory. It suits students, parents, and anyone who hears promises of “free” services and wants to understand what might be traded away in return.
What does the title mean by “When everything is free, you are the price”?
It means that when the state promises many free things, people often pay in other ways. For example, they may lose choices, privacy, or freedom to speak and move.
What kinds of real-life stories does the book share?
The book shares memories of growing up in the USSR. It covers school, work, shopping lines, shortages, censorship, and how people adapted to rules and control in daily life.
How does the book compare past socialism to today’s trends?
It looks at ideas like cancel culture, speech limits, and heavy state control. It then compares them with similar patterns the author saw in the USSR, showing how they developed over time.
Is this a history textbook or a personal memoir?
It is mainly a personal memoir with historical context. The author uses his own stories and then links them to larger events and policies so readers can see how systems affect real people.
What formats is the book available in?
The book is available in eBook and paperback formats. An audiobook is planned but may not be available yet, depending on release timing.
How could this book be used in education or discussion groups?
It can support classes or clubs on civics, history, or economics. Groups can read chapters, then discuss how the stories compare with current debates about government, freedom, and “free” services.