Ok. If I could have I would have given only 4 1/2 stars, but why quibble. As I got deeper into this historical novel of the early 1930's in Stalinist Russia, it became clear to me that the author brought a very well informed intelligence to the task of writing this story. He gives very convincing and, at times, brilliant insights into the thought processes of his characters, especially Stalin...not to overlook the author's knowledge of the times about which he wrote. After reading this saga I was left with an intellectual, at least, understanding and feel for the psychosocial impact in and on the lives of the players in this drama; yet, wondering and speculating about the lingering effects of the trauma that so many suffered during that era.
As the novel unfolded, many of the novel's characters grew, evolved and became clear about who they were as human beings; and this, despite the distortions of their lives wreaked by the fear and pressures of an increasingly Stalin dominated Soviet Union. In fact, the distortive forces are seen to have served as fodder for the personal growth of the central players in this intensive and oppressive environmental drama. As I was reading, there were times when I could feel the frustration and anger of the actors, coupled with the tension of them being believers in the goals of Marxism/Leninism; and, yet, as individuals, being caught up, if not mangled, in the Kafka like machinery of the power driven, brutal politics of the times.
As I got deeper into the story, my appreciation grew for the author's effectiveness (and many, many kudos to the translator!!!) in facilitating my being transported to the time and place of which he wrote... it was as if I was there! Well done Mr. Rybakov, well done!
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