Redemption

Redemption is an important theme in the novel “Child 44” by Tom Rob Smith. Redemption is the process of seeking to atone, by word, deed, or other action, for past wrongs committed, either against the self or against others. These wrongs committed will often be of a grave nature, sometimes intentional or unintentional, and sometimes not seen at the time as being wrong. In the novel, it is Leo who is searching for redemption based on past wrongs committed, wrongs he believed not to be wrongs at all, but necessary, utilitarian actions for a higher purpose.

Leo is a member of the Stalinist Russia’s MGB State Security force, having formerly fought in special forces units during World War II. An idealistic Communist who is ready to die for Communism and for the Soviet Union, Leo never questions his missions or his goals. Everything he does is...