Modern Nations of the World - Russia

Grade 9 UpATextual sidebars and good historical maps enrich this gracefully written history from the time of the Scythians (800-200 B.C.) to the Russian Federation in 1997. However, the text, though admirably presented with apt references to events outside of Russia, has been so tightly condensed that it may best serve students who already have some knowledge of the subject. The chapter on the arts in Russia is a laudable attempt to be inclusive, but the overall picture may be lost in the plethora of names. Oddly enough, although several portrait painters are noted, there is no mention of Repin, the most famous 19th-century artist. Also, there is no indication that individuals such as Chagall and Stravinsky emigrated, spending some of their most creative decades abroad. On the positive side, chapters on "The New Russia" and "Russia in the World Community" offer much up-to-date information on the transition and foreign policy. Many of the suggestions for further reading are more appropriate for college than high school students. Average to poorly reproduced black-and-white photos and reproductions appear throughout. While the history is superior to James Strickler's Russia of the Tsars (Lucent, 1997), many students will prefer Michael Kort's Russia (Facts on File, 1995), which is longer but easier to read, better on Russian culture, and offers more on daily life.AElizabeth Talbot, University of Illinois, Champaign
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.

"The book details the country's climate, geography, agriculture, industry, daily life in both rural and urban areas, and arts and culture. The book features maps, black-and-white photographs, and special boxes...The book's final pages offer a set of facts-at-a-glance, a detailed chronology, an annotated bibliography including works for both children and adults, an annotated list of works consulted (including web sites), and an index."
-- Multi-Cultural Review (March 2001) (MultiCultural Review 20010301)

"Libraries seeking solid, lasting references for their geography section will want to include...these additions... the Modern Nations of the World series provides important overviews and information on the history and politics of the countries with black-and-white photos peppering the accounts."
-- Children's Bookwatch (January 2000) (Children's Bookwatch 20000101)