Siberia Bound: Chasing the American Dream on Russia's Wild Frontier
Author: Alexander Blakely
List Price: $22.95
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ISBN: 1570719446
Publisher: Sourcebooks Trade (June, 2002)
Sales Rank: 174,181
Average Customer Rating: 4.64 out of 5
Customer Reviews
Rating: 5 out of 5
A very accurate and readable book
A Russian diplomat friend insisted I read this book, and even proudly lent me his own personally autographed copy.I didn't have to read more than a page before recognising this as an excellently written book and full of accurate perceptions and truths - Blakely not only does an excellent job of describing the uniqueness of Russia from a foreigner's perspective, but also the uniqueness of the US from a Russian's perspective. Both sets of descriptions are insightful into both cultures.
As one that has also been closely involved in Russia (from 1995 onwards) I can confirm his description of the enormous changes that are under way in Russia, and of the bitter sweet fruits of the country's transition to 'freedom' and capitalism. His insightful comments about the US representing a communist ideal, and the USSR representing a capitalist ideal give one pause for thought.
His story seems to start in the middle, rather than at the beginning, and leaves a lot out that I'd love to have seen included. But what he does share with us is concentrated and high quality material, and enjoyable for all - for students of Russia, for students of economics, and for students of humanity. I take solace by the massive omissions from his book in the hope that they presage a second volume to follow.
I echo the Russian diplomat's strong recommendation. Buy this book.
Rating: 5 out of 5
This is a really fun read!
My wife, a Novosibirsk native, bought me this book for father's day. I have spent some time in Novosibirsk myself, so I was intrigued by the subject matter and location. I had some doubts after reading the dustjacket, thinking it might be a dry how-to manual on how to start a business in a hostile environment. I could not have been more wrong.
Mr. Blakely spins a great story about a few years spent in an interesting and exotic place, getting to know the local people and even falling in love. This is anything but dry. Read this book, it is money well-spent. And by the way, he is not kidding about the beauty of Siberian women, they are stunning. I know, I married one myself.
Rating: 5 out of 5
Thanks NPR and the other reviewers. A good find!!
How refreshing to be treated to a story of a modern adventurist. One of the rare living spirits in todays world who has the guts and passion to take a stab at striking out on his own. Lucky for us, he is also one of the rare individuals with a knack to be able to put it to pen. The author masterly balances his passion with a calm insight to produce subtle observations and quirky annedcotes that draw you in. Each of his varied stories is well told. A fun and engaging read that will leave you pondering.
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