Russia (Nations in Transition (Facts on File))

Book by Kort, Michael

Grade 7 Up-Kort begins with the history of Russia from its beginnings through the Soviet period. He draws in readers by commenting on how events and policies affected ordinary people. However, the book's greatest strength may be in its clear explanations of the period of transition after 1991, its problems and prospects (as the concluding chapter is titled), because this information is not readily available in such a succinct, lucid form. In chapters on politics and government, building a new economy, and daily life, the author uses concrete examples and quotes by Russians to enliven his account. The chapter on politics includes a good history of the coup in 1991 and Yeltsin's confrontation with the Parliament in 1993, as well as commentary on political parties and groups. Black-and-white photos are scattered throughout. The chronology and historical maps are helpful; there is no map of the regions or physical geography. An excellent account for general-interest reading and reports.
Elizabeth Talbot, University of Illinois, Champaign
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 8^-12. The first in the new Nations in Transition series, this should be a godsend for students seeking current information on Russia. Kort, author of several other books on Russia and the Soviet Union, does an admirable job of condensing Russian history, from the Kievian city-states to the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. Well-chosen quotes from sources as diverse as Ivan the Terrible, Tolstoy, and political prisoners personalize the readable text. Two chapters on geography and culture serve as a bridge to the book's second half, which examines politics from December 1991 through 1994. This section will prove most useful to students, as it clearly explains the circumstances of the transition from Gorbachev to Yeltsin and examines everyday life and changing cultural attitudes, especially among young people. A well-organized chronology, detailed index, and small but select bibliography complement the text, and black-and-white photos and clear maps provide good visuals. Although the overall appearance and tone shout "report," any reader with even a mild interest in Russian history will find themselves enjoying their research. Debbie Carton