(Reviewed by JD Jung)
I have been requested to review some short non-fiction books, and as promised, I am posting reviews of those that I recommend. History of Russia is such a book.
Russia: History of Russia: Kievan Rus to Vladimir Putin, Tsars and Revolutions – All Shaping Russian Culture and Russian History is presented in such a stimulating manner. It’s rather comprehensive considering it is only 78 pages . This is amazing considering Russia’s turbulent history.
The book covers the early history from 800AD, through Tsardom, Imperial Russia, Russian Revolution and creation of the Soviet Union and its breakup which led to Russia as it is today. It includes The Soviet’s place in WWII and its tremendous sacrifices. Each event and person in power is fairly analyzed.
Most chapters (period of rule) conclude with Common misconceptions, trivia and interesting facts. What I particularly enjoyed were the “if the Choice Were Yours” sections at the end of each chapter. This takes on thought-provoking role playing and how you would have handled a situation.
I recommend this book to all of those interested in Russian history. Even if you’re familiar with the history, you may start seeing some major events and people in a different light.
Most importantly this concise read will enable you to find particular areas of interest in Russian history where you want to dig deeper.
