Positives Reviewers acknowledge the author's established expertise as a top authority on Russia and Russian culture. The book's most engaging sections include the author's reflections on Russia's trajectory from over a decade ago. Readers also found value in the summary of his ten years spent in Moscow, noting that the individual observations from this period were particularly interesting.
Negatives However, the book receives criticism for several aspects. The subtitle, "Busting Myths," is seen as misleading, as the content does not delve into myths concerning Russia or its people as one might expect. Instead, the book is described as a collection of confused and disconnected anecdotes that lack a clear, overarching theme, feeling more like an interim report on the author's previous works and their reception. Reviewers also noted a significant amount of self-promotion, with pages dedicated to listing the author's past publications and their positive reviews.
Conclusion Ultimately, while the author's deep knowledge of the subject is undisputed, this particular volume is not considered among his best. It may appeal to readers specifically interested in the author's writing journey, his personal observations from his time in Moscow, or his earlier perspectives on Russia's direction. However, those seeking a cohesive narrative, a focused exploration of Russian myths, or a more traditional analysis of the region might find it falls short of expectations.
