Russia

A Short History

By: Abraham Ascher

Narrated by: John Pruden

Distinguished Professor Emeritus Abraham Ascher offers a skillful blend of engaging narrative and fresh analysis in this concise introduction to Russian history.

Newly updated on the 100th anniversary of the Bolshevik Revolution, it covers the growing political tensions between Russia and its neighbors and the mounting divergence between Russian and US foreign policies. This stimulating and beautifully written introduction will prove enlightening for students, scholars, and travelers alike.

©2009 Abraham Ascher (P)2017 Tantor

Critic reviews

"A coherent account of Russia's vibrant history, explaining the complex story of Russian development with great clarity. Vividly illuminates Russia's past and shows how it has contributed to its troubled present." (Peter Waldron, professor of modern history, University of East Anglia)

great overall history of Russia

I should begin by noting that I’m not a professional historian, so I have no idea if this book is up to par on a scholarly level. That having been said, I found it engaging and interesting. Unlike some historical surveys that drone on and on with questionable background information, Ascher’s narrative gets to the point relatively quickly in terms of establishing major themes in Russian history (which I knew very little about prior to listening to this book) and shows what was at stake in various historical moments.

Interesting

This is the second course on Russian history. And it offers a really interesting perspective. More pragmatic. As it is mentioned in the beginning, it is difficult to soak about everything. So, there are still some blank spots in my interest. And I think that the conclusions are biased. Nevertheless, it is a strong recommendation.

Excellent concise history

This book focuses on big ideas: movements, leaders, culture. It covers 1000 years in just 10 hours! This is just what I was looking for, a concise introduction to this rich, relevant, enormous country. The author helps give context to events, while appropriately noting that sometimes one can't simplify or distill down complex events. There are just enough anecdotes to help you relate to the people, while not focusing on any one particular era or event too long. I ended up slowing it down to 90% because it moves pretty fast. But the reader did an excellent job.

A brief history of Russia

The book is very concise, informative, enjoyable with the difficult task of summarizing the history of a great country like Russia in 90000 words which is a daunting task. But it is a great start for anyone interested in Russian history.

Very good but end is skippable

I went into this knowing very little about Russian history, and it’s exactly what I wanted: short and to the point! But then there’s a relatively lengthy bit at the end full of speculation about the future that is old enough to have pretty solidly missed the mark. Feel free to skip that part!

Slow the @!$# Down!

Any additional comments?

John Pruden might as well be reading a warranty disclaimer for a microwave. He reads at such a fast pace the material become gibberish and dissolves into white noise.

I purchased this because I wished to better understand Russian Literature (subtext) , but it is almost impossible to process the information that is being delivered in a monotonal tone.

I tried slowing it down the audio to 90% but it is too distorted. Highly disappointed. It is almost like he is afraid the tape will run out before he finishes. Will not be buying ANY book read by this narrator.