Customer Reviews

My Life in Stalinist Russia: An American Woman Looks Back

5 star:		(4)
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Although I have read a number of books on the Soviet Union, much to my surprise, I found myself totally absorbed by Mary Leder's odyssey. Starting with her travels across the US, and thence to Birobidzhan (Siberia), later asked to spy and, of course, spied upon, I believe Ms. Leder spins an eloquent and gripping tale. From Mary the dedicated communist to Mary the disenchanted one, from Mary the factory worker to Mary the editor-translator, she paints a totally honest and courageous picture of herself and her travails and those of so many of her fellow citizens. I recommend this book highly.

A great account of how people lived in the Soviet Union during Stalin's rule. The advantage of this book is that it gives you the facts in such a way that it is up to you to decide whether or not the author is right in her conclusions. I strongly recommend this book for both academic and private reading for I believe it is one of the most unique books ever written about the lifes of regular Soviet citizens.

Mary is taking you to the Stalin era... in imagination I lived her life while reading the book..When I went to Moscow it felt as if I have already been there.

I found Mary's book hard to put down, and not because I too am Jewish and my Mother's name is Mary.

I really hope some of my progressive Jewish friends read it. It reads so well and is a very deep look into the sickness of the Russian soul and the dreary brutality and horrible corruption which accompanies all collectivism and redistribution.

Please read this before you vote for another Democrat.