Customer Reviews

Putin: Russia's Choice

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It 's really a relief to read an objective analysis of what Mr. Putin's been up to. Thoughtful, thorough with no axe to grind, the author sheds a new and welcome light on current Russian politics. I have traveled the CIS many times and read many books about Russia's post-communist transition; usually finishing a book still a bit puzzled and remembering Churchill's remark that Russia was a 'riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.' But no more! - Now, Mr. Sakwa has turned the lights on for anyone who cares to bypass the tabloid press to find out what the true status is of Russia and the direction the Federation is heading. What truly astounded me was how competent and multi-tasked Mr. Putin has had to be to wrestle Russia's post communist political behemoth into a new, stable beginning for true domestic and international progress. A relief to read, actually.

There are about 10 books on Putin at the Syracuse University library. "Putin Russia's choice" by Sakwa (ISBN 978-0-415-40766-3) is the best. I found it very helpful for my graduate research paper on Putin's political leadership.

This book is the best place to start. Why? Because it is:

* Facts based

* Unbiased (Well, almost. The author seems to subtly admiring mister Putin, but definitely less emotional than any other books I have looked at.)

* Concise and detailed

* Cover a broad range of subjects on Putin, background, events, etc..

* Quotes and references to a lot of good material in other sources - really a good place to start

Note: I read the paper copy (ISBN 978-0-415-40766-3), and an not promising the kindle edition is the same.