The Russia Reader

"The Russia Reader provides a wonderful overview of Russian life and culture across the centuries, from the emergence of Muscovy and Russian Orthodoxy to the present day. The editors have done a remarkable job in selecting a range of texts that provide a sweeping overview of the complexity, drama, passion and tragedy of Russian life. The author's brief introductions helpfully situate the texts. Readers can either follow the fate of Russia chronologically--or they can use the book as a kaleidoscope, to explore different facets of Russian life and culture. Readers will find a treasure trove of beautiful, dramatic and tragic readings to explore Russian history and culture across the ages."--Peter Holquist, History Department, University of Pennsylvania "Adele Barker and Bruce Grant have selected a fascinating group of writings reflecting Russian reality, past and present, most by Russians themselves. The selections make absorbing reading and convey insights that penetrate the veil of mystery that has so long obscured the 'Russian soul.'"--Jack F. Matlock Jr., United States Ambassador to the Soviet Union, 1987-1991 "The book is tailored to occasional and avid readers alike, with its chapters organized along a roughly chronological thread...The vast majority of the texts are lucid and eye-opening, with Georgi Derlugian's unsparing but balanced "Chechnya -- A Brief Explanation" constituting one of the book's absolute highlights. ...For the reader who desires to take a first dip into Russian history and culture but is overwhelmed by the vast amount of work available, The Russia Reader is the ideal starting point." - Viktoria Ivanyutina, The Moscow Times "The Russia surveyed here is one that reveals the complex layers of history that have accumulated over time and the voices that Barker and Grant marshal in telling Russia's history are engaging and innovative ones... The Russia Reader should interest any ... traveler looking for a rich introduction into the history, culture, and politics of Russia." - Stephen M. Norris, Anthropology of East Europe Review "The Russia Reader is excellent. It is a tremendous introduction for the newcomer to Russian history and culture, and even the well-versed reader should find fascinating new material amongst the rich variety collected here." - Mary Bailes, Scotland-Russia Review