Fantastic, I have been in moscow for 5 years and been working, meeting people and got the street-pulse. George Feifer's book is showing the russian's mentality with happiness and large respect. The russian people is a proud people who has been through some hard times and Mr Feifer lets you know how they got by. Today Soviet is Russia, but a lot is still the same, still true...The book is very up lifting, I lift my hat off to you George...

I think this book is great. Plus, George Feifer is awesome. He's a friend of the family and he's definitely one of the coolest guys I know. And coming from a teenager, that's a lot. Well, anyways, everyone should definitely read this book. You won't regret it.

This fantastic book offers a wonderful view of a young man experiencing life to its fullest--in Soviet Moscow. Extremely well-written, funny, and insightful, it shares its best qualities with those in Salinger's "Catcher in the Rye," Roth's "Portnoy's Complaint," and Kerouac's "On the Road." Reading this book will make you feel good. It is a book for everyone.

ASIN -0192158422 Anybody can receive this book within a week or two. On Stalin and Stalinism is a book that I strongly recommend for anyone that is interested about the Russian Revolution and the conflicts it brought over who would have the most power between the key leaders including Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin. Medvedev examined first-hand stories from survivers of the Stalin Era, secret letters sent amongst government officials, and personal quotations that provided an insight to who these Soviet leaders were really like. The majority of the book was spent on the reasons why Stalin inflicted torture on innocent people. Their was never a boring part in the book but instead it kept me wanting to read more. Anybody who reads this book will gain an enormous amount of information about behind the scenes of the Communist Party. Instead of having his own opinion throughout the book, Medvedev was able to have a range of materials at his disposal since he is a Soviet author. If any student has to do a report on Stalin or is just in a mood to read a remarkable book then On Stalin and Stalinism is they novel for you.

Anybody can receive this book within a week or two. On Stalin and Stalinism is a book that I strongly recommend for anyone that is interested about the Russian Revolution and the conflicts it brought over who would have the most power between the key leaders including Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin. Medvedev examined first-hand stories from survivers of the Stalin Era, secret letters sent amongst government officials, and personal quotations that provided an insight to who these Soviet leaders were really like. The majority of the book was spent on the reasons why Stalin inflicted torture on innocent people. Their was never a boring part in the book but instead it kept me wanting to read more. Anybody who reads this book will gain an enormous amount of information about behind the scenes of the Communist Party. Instead of having his own opinion throughout the book, Medvedev was able to have a range of materials at his disposal since he is a Soviet author. If any student has to do a report on Stalin or is just in a mood to read a remarkable book then On Stalin and Stalinism is they novel for you.

On Stalin and Stalinism is a book that I strongly recommend for anyone that is interested about the Russian Revolution and the conflicts it brought over who would have the most power between the key leaders including Lenin, Trotsky, and Stalin. Medvedev examined first-hand stories from survivers of the Stalin Era, secret letters sent amongst government officials, and personal quotations that provided an insight to who these Soviet leaders were really like. The majority of the book was spent on the reasons why Stalin inflicted torture on innocent people. Their was never a boring part in the book but instead it kept me wanting to read more. Anybody who reads this book will gain an enormous amount of information about behind the scenes of the Communist Party. Instead of having his own opinion throughout the book, Medvedev was able to have a range of materials at his disposal since he is a Soviet author. If any student has to do a report on Stalin or is just in a mood to read a remarkable book then On Stalin and Stalinism is they novel for you.

This writing by Pozner provides an honest look into his life personally and his perceptions of the U.S., world, and the Soviet Union, as a Soviet citizen. He was not the average Soviet citizen however. He was one of the fortunate few who were allowed to leave his country and spend time abroad. He was afforded the rare glimpse of American life and culture during his time there in the 1930s. This obviously is a part of him, as is his other numerous experiences. In addition, he also candidly shared his personal life with us. (When he saw his old-flame coming the opposite way on an escalator, for example). Pozner is down-to-Earth and it's easy for a reader to like and to relate to him.

I read this book when it first came out and went over it again recently, 14 years later, finding it in an old box of mine. His writings prove that he had good instincts on where his nation and culture, and the world was heading at the time he wrote "Parting with Illusion." He has the oration and writing ability to explain his viewpoints as well as the perceptions of many Russians when he wrote this book in 1989. He discussed Stalin and his legacy, and the graft and corruption that crept into the USSR, becoming commonplace by the 1960s.

Now, 14 years later, I wonder: where is Vladimir Pozner? I haven't heard or seen him since the late 1980s or perhaps early 90s.

At the time, he was articulate, and an astute observer of current affairs. Possessing a gifted knack for passing his observations on.

Today, in 2003, where is he now?

A truly excepional book and my all time favorite... An incredibly personal account of an extraordinary life of a true citizen of the world ... along with an insightful look into the drama of modern Russian history.
Pozner talks about his childhood, his parents, first glass of vodka and his first love, his marriages, career, spiritual and political struggles...
Plus a personal account of WWII, Stalin's purges, the Thaw, the Iron Curtain and Perestroika.

This book was a present to me when I was a senior in college and what a gift it was! The Russians often painted as the cold number one enemy came to be just as human as anyone. The author's struggle between being a journalist in a communist country certainly makes me, a journalist in a world that protects free speech, feel very humbled and fortunate.

It's humanity's greatest test when one is forced to question your own country's integrity. Yet the author has succeeded in standing by his principles. Extremely educational (and easy reading for students) for those who are not familiar with Russian history and diplomacy. It's been years since I read it and I look forward to picking it up again.

Although I consider having read all seven of the books in The Russians series a great accomplishment (and a very enjoyable one) I became so attached to Anna and the other characters that I was actually saddened when I finished this, the final book.

The series has given me a love for historical fiction and knowledge of many details in Russian history. Pella has done a wonderful job and I have never been disappointed by any of her works.

I read the first three books in this series when I was 14 years old. I can't begin to explain the agony the third book put me through. I had compard the first two to a fairytale, and with the last came the reality as the real world crept into view...bringing tragedy and pain.

I find that the author(s) of these stories manage to twist their way into my gut like very few others have been able to do. If you are ready to being what will initially appear as light "pleasure" reading, but what will also stretch you heart to it's boundaries, try the series. And please, read them in order.

I love this book!I have read the first six of the series, "The Russians" and there has not been one dull moment. Judith Pella does an incredible job of describing the characters and their feelings so well that you feel like you know them personally. This book really ties up a lot of loose ends; some sad ends and others are very joyful. But even the sads ones are just perfect because it helps give a realistic image of what live was like at the turn of the century in Russia. I would highly reccomend this to anyone!

Ellis Sandoz (one of only a few graduate students philosopher Eric Voegelin took on) provides an excellent discussion and analysis of Dostoevsky's "Legend of the Grand Inquisitor" from The Brothers Karamazov, perhaps one of the world's greatest novels. Sandoz first gives the historical and religious background of Dostoevsky and the Russia he knew, placing Dostoevsky's thought in the particular (and peculiar?) character of Russian Orthodox Christianity, with its roots in old Slavic cults. He then launches into an explication of the Legend, understanding it in distinctly biblical terms. His discussion of the "threeness" of the tale (he finds dozens of triplets throughout) is quite interesting. But more than an analysis of Dostoevsky, it is an insight into the nihilism of modern times. The solution to the crisis lies in returning political science to a search (zetema) for truth. "Political Apocalypse" is a step in that direction.

What a book! Great for any serious fan of Dostoevsky and his philosophy of religion and metaphysics. It puts the context on his thought and his works.

In the fairest and most detailed way, Elis Sandoz fairly and accurately examines Dostoevsky's "Legend of The Grand Inquisitor."

This is one of the best books I've read all year. I'm speechless just buy this book!

What a book! Great for any serious fan of Dostoevsky and his philosophy of religion and metaphysics. It puts the context on his thought and his works.

In the fairest and most detailed way, Elis Sandoz fairly and accurately examines Dostoevsky's "Legend of The Grand Inquisitor."

This is one of the best books I've read all year. I'm speechless just buy this book!

An well researched, insightful and VERY WELL BALANCED look at the life of St. John of Krostadt. A must read for any Russian Orthodox Christian.

The book chronicles the life of Father John of Kronstadt, a controversial and highly profiled religious figure during the pre-revolutionary period. Details of his life and his world are fascinating. Seeing how he is approached for help and his actions indirectly reveals much about those living in Russia during that time. the book was also very helpful in dispelling some of the myths that commonly surround this man.

I think this is an excellent read for Orthodox Christians and ALSO anyone interested in Russia during that time period.

A good solid text that is actually fascinating reading. There is not much written in English about St. John - this book is a real gem.

I love Patricia Polacco's books and this one is no exception! This story is great to use both in and out of the classroom. It is great for reading outloud to children or for them to read to you. I have used it in my lesson plans as a teacher to introduce lessons on different ways people celebrate holidays around the world and in the US. I have students grades K-5 and it has been a favorite with all of them...then again all of Patricia Polacco's books seem to be favorites with any child!

Set in Russia, this book tells the story of Babushka, a old grandma who is painting Easter eggs for the big contest in Moscow. She works all winter on her eggs, and also feeds the wild animals that live around her. One day, some hunters shoot a goose; she takes it in and nurses it back to health. She names the goose Rechenka. Quite by accident, Rechenka ruins all of Babuska's beautiful eggs, but she gives the woman magically painted goose eggs in their place. Babushka goes to the contest and wins first prize with Rechenka's fabulous eggs, and when she comes home, she discovers one more very special gift from Rechenka.

Told very simply with large, colorful illustrations, this story is enjoyed by 6-9 year olds. It stresses kindness and gratitude, as well as showing a little about Russian customs. The ending is quite poignant and heartwarming. It's a beautiful book!

This delightful story touched my heart and made me smile . . . It is truly a tale of unfailing loyalty between an unlikely pair: Babushka, an elderly woman and a wounded goose she befriends. The kindness that both show for each other is an important lesson told in the simplicity of Ms. Polacco's writing. A sweet, sweet story that children and adults will both love.

I have looked through a lot of books on the former Soviet Union and its collapse. Very often, Western authors show clear misunderstanding of the process and how it evolved. I was pleasantly surprised to find a very good analysis in this book. Being a Russian citizen, I discover that it truthfully depicts the history of my country and gives a very thorough picture of what has happened in it before, during, and after the collapse of the Soviet Union. The authors go to great lengths in order to convey their knowledge to the reader and I very much appreciate their work and effort.

review by illinois reader missed the main points of the book in my opinion. 1-gorbachev tried to reform system thru democratizing(he succeeded)the system and retaining some aspects of socialism(he failed) 2-Democatization allowed the option for a return to capitalism,formerly outlawed,to be considered as an option. 3-The elite opposed early moves toward perostroika because they feared loss of priveleges when decentralization was attempted 4-The elite then embraced the move to capitalism, despite the opposition of 60+percent of the citizenry,hence the title "Revolution From Above" 5-The USSR did not collapse because it was moribund,but because the elite felt that they could enrich themselves more under capitalism than they already had under the soviets. 6-Socialism may not be dead because it failed in the USSR.The author considers that as a first attempt from which future generation can learn. 7-This is well documented academic work well written and with an unconventional view point.

Kotz and Weir start this book with a long detour through Soviet economic history, which is worthy on its own in explaining an often mythologized subject, but really pays off when it explains how the Soviet Union had a very distinct class structure that laid the grounds for the current era. With intelligent sociological analysis they show how the coordinators and bureaucrats who inhabited an allegedly "socialist" system did so for predominantly personal gain, and how they eventually sought and found even more gain in ending that system altogether. Crucial reading for understanding class conflict in Russia today.

I am a history maj at UHH and am required to write a review for this book. In spirit of true historians i will convey my review for everyone.
Lindsey Hughes presents an information rich, easily readable resource, of 18th century Russia, and in my opinion, "produced a well balanced historical reference book." Researching information for this book would lead you to believe that Peter was not a favorved tsar of his time or even today. Dr. Hughes presents unbias evidence for readers to beable to potray the Petrine era, she accomplishes this while still being able to envoke the feeling of those who gave reffrence of Peter during his time. "This newest Russian tittle will give you imense amounts of information allowing you to regurgitate a clear picture of just how life was during Russia in the age of Peter the Great.

This book covers almost every angle of a very dynamic and consequential period in the history of Russia. Its organization allows the reader to move easily through the book and examine those parts which are of interest. I read the book from cover to cover and was never once displeased with the well-researched facts and attention to detail. I highly recommend this book to anyone with an interest in Russia's history.

This book overshadows almost everything ever written about Peter the Great and his era. It is deeply researched, incisively argued, stylishly presented, and a marvelous read. Hughes organizes a huge amount of material logically and clearly; her prose exudes spirit and style. She revises much received wisdom. She treats many neglected topics with great insight and good sense. She makes many fascinating comparisons and constantly keeps in mind the contemporary context that Peter lived in. She has a wonderful eye for memorable quotations and shows great wit in her wide-ranging presentation. Her book makes many others look silly and shallow and stodgy. Her book achieves a wonderful balance between scholarly discoveries and revisions and popular topics with wide appeal to any literate person. A sterling achievement in all respects.

Lucy Maxym has written two authoritative books on the subject of Russian fairy tales and the beautiful laquer art that depicts these folktales. This is one volume of a two volume set. Unfortunately there is no cover art available online to show the magnificent scene shown from Voron Voronovich or The Raven. When the book is opened up it shows the complete panel that is the actual size. There are over one hundred full color plates that are beyond description with their delicate intricacy and unsurpassed attention to minute detail. The precise tempura egg based brush strokes are unbelieveable. They are in a word, exquisite. I've enjoyed this book for years and have it handy for quick and easy inspiration. Many of the color illustrations are actual size which allows the viewer to appreciate the intricate finesse involved in the small works of art. Sometimes a magnifying glass helps to appreciate the fine detail. The subtlety and skill in producing these works of art is nothing short of amazing. The actual text is complete, concise and explains the nineteen Russian legends and fairy tales chosen. My own interest grew out of a collection of plates I have from some of these folktales where I wanted to know more about the story behind the magnificent laquered plates. I found this book to be helpful to understanding the tales and was even more pleased by the art work included. If you like Russian folktales or the miniature lacquer paintings this book will bring much joy throughout the years, year after year. Get both volumes for a double treat.

This is the second of two volumes of Russian fairy tales, illustrated with stunning color reproductions of "lacquer-miniature" masterpieces. The art of miniature oil painting began in Fedoskino centuries ago, and today features realistic renderings of village life, portraits, and archetecture. The villages of Palekh, Kholui, and Mstera were long the center for ikon painting, with successive generations following the tradition of apprenticing with Masters. Ikons were painted with the extremely durable egg-tempura paints, utilizing natural dyes. After the Bolshevik Revolution, iconography was discouraged, and painters from these three schools began depicting pagan folk tales, troikas and village life, heroic legend, history, and "inspirational" revolutionary themes. Traditional iconic style distinguishes the works of these little rural villages, whose artists still use the ancient techniques and materials. Many of today's Masters are currently working to restore treasured ikons damaged under Stalinist decree. The beautiful glossy photos in these volumes represent some of the best work of Russia's Master painters. For collectors of this appealing art, or for those who appreciate intricate Russian folk tales, the Lucy Maxym series is a wonderful addition to your library.

This is one of two volumes of Russian fairy tales, lavishly illustrated with full color reproductions of lacquer miniature paintings. This volume gives a fairly detailed description of the process of creating this folk art form, beginning with the fabrication of the papier-mache' box or plaque, through the mixing of the egg-tempura or oil paints, to the fine details of the miniature masterpieces. All four Villages, or styles, of the art are represented, featuring the works of world-reknowned Masters. For any collector of fine lacquer art from Palekh, Kholui, Mstera, and Fedoskino; or for anyone who enjoys Russian folk tales; this is a wonderful, high-quality book. It also makes a very nice gift.