Russia Books

The Red Scarf was an excellent story. I found it to be just as engrossing as The Russian Concubine, but in a totally different way. Furnivall has the rare talent of making each of her novels a completely unique experience for the reader. Amazingly well researched, true to life in its time, I whole-heartedly recommend The Red Scarf.

In 1933 Sofia Morozova struggles to survive her ordeal in Siberia's Davinsky labor camp. She lives because she has a long term goal of freedom and a short term objective to keep the spirit of frail half-broken Anna Fedorina going; she knows Anna depends on her for her minuscule fading flicker of hope.

When Anna becomes ill, Sofia desperately seeks help, which means leaving the camp. She escapes in hopes of finding Anna's childhood love Vasily a revolutionary allegedly living in Tivil. Sofia meets factory director Mikhail Pashin, whom she believes is Vasily in disguise. As she falls in love with Mikhail, she refuses to act on her feelings because if he is Vasily, as she believes, he belongs to Anna.

This is a deep character driven tale starring two courageous women, a brave man, and the labor camp that is so vividly described it takes on a role of a horror figure. Sofia is wonderful as she survives the same way some people did the Nazi's concentration camps a decade later by making friends to care for, thinking of the happiness in her past in Petrograd and believing in a future life beyond the death prison. The romance takes a back seat though well written and enhancing the overall plot as Kate Furnivall concentrates on a powerful historical that focuses on the horrors of the Siberian death camps.

Harriet Klausner

Truly terrific book. I picked it up at the store on a whim, and once I opened it, I couldn't put it down. It takes place in communist Russia, which I have to admit that I knew almost nothing about previously, and the thoughtless at best, abusive at worst treatment of the Russian people was just appalling. The author very effectively goes back into flashbacks without seeming to overtake the story with them, and the characters are all fully developed people, with faults and humanity and a sense of desperation to just survive their lives. Add a dash of the supernatural, and several unexpected twists, and I'll call this the best book I've read so far this year.

_The Rulers of Russia_ is an examination of some of the Bolshevik leaders and Russian party chiefs who created the Soviet disaster and attempts to show how these forces are linked to international finance and various Judaic elements. Rev. Denis Fahey contends that the modern world is headed in the direction of greater servility, communism, and "naturalistic" supplantation of true religion. Opposed to this tendency stands the great tradition of Christ's Catholic Church. The author examines some dictatorships such as Hitler's Germany which attempted to oppose international finance based on a false religion of racial worship. Against this the author proposes that we must return to the mystical Body of Christ in an effort to achieve a truly Christian society. This essay is also interesting for its discussions of banking, the gold standard, and the role of international finance and racial idolatry in the affairs of the modern world.

_The Rulers of Russia_ by Rev. Denis Fahey, an Irish Catholic priest, is about the Jewish government of Russia imposed by the Bolshevik takeover of Russia after the overthrow of Nicholas II. It was originally published during the Second World War as a supplement to Fahey's main book concerning the conflict between the Roman Catholic Church and Judaism, _The Mystical Body of Christ_. Ever since Christ's Crucifixion, explains Fahey, the "supernatural order" of Christ has been opposed by the "natural order" deriving from the race/religion of the Jews and various offshoot cults such as the Freemasons. The Jews are in a conspiracy to overthrow the Mass and the authority of the Church in all areas of the world. The reasons for this conflict is because the Jews rejected Christ as the supernatural Messias and seek of their own will the "natural" Messias, who will place the world under the power of international Jewry. Various anti-Christian campaigns have been launched to further this plan. International finance and liberal, capitalist democracies and republics are controlled from above, which are apparently opposed by radical, communist and socialist revolutionaries from below. The trick is Jews and the demonic force behind them control both sides of this conflict.

This book is rather unique because it is anti-Nazi as well as anti-Jewish. Fahey divides the powers of the world into two categories: the "Judeo-Masonic" democracies (including the Soviet Union) that have their economies under the thumb of Jewish bankers versus the reactionary fascist nations of Germany, Italy and Japan. These fascist countries were free from Judeo-Masonic control of their economies, and Nazism in Germany was militantly anti-Jewish. What is unusual about German National Socialism is it followed the same "naturalistic" principle, which is behind Jewish world power. Nazism seeks to supplant the Christian view of the world with the deification of the Aryan race. Furthermore, mention is made of the secret occult lodges that sought to emulate the heretical Knights Templar and that formed the Nazi movement based on the 19th century German Idealist philosophers. Although Hitler made statements in public that the Third Reich was not persecuting Christians, in particular Catholics, Fahey quotes high ranking Church officials who attest to the Nazi deception of Christians. Fahey remarks that the Third Reich and Herr Hitler are doomed in the face of overwhelming hostility from the combined might of Jewish finance which has the arsenal of Great Britain, the United States and the Soviet Union at its disposal. The only countries for whom Fahey has much sympathy are Francisco Franco's Spain and Poland's Catholic nationalism, which resisted both Nazi and Soviet encroachments, despite Poland's being a pawn of the Britain and France to stir up trouble with Germany. The conclusion to this pamphlet is a traditional Catholic take on democracy. The current "Judeo-Masonic" democracy in America is illegitimate because it does not rest on God for its ultimate authority, but instead refers to the "common will" of the people as if it was infallible. Regrettably, no mention is made of Orthodox Christianity itself inside Russia in the face of Bolshevik persecution.

This outstanding and remarkable book written by Father Dennis Fahey is a «classic» among the literature related to Jewish plans for World domination... On his work, the author pointed out the real rulers of Russia since the bolchevism revolution of 1917 have been the jews... showing proofs of all types in order to get to his thesis: names of komintern and politburo figures, comissairs, ambassadors, and tracking the jewish origin of people such as K. Marx (Mordekai), V. I. Lenin (Ulianov Blank), Trotsky, etc. etc. Moreover, the book deals with the question about jewish naturalism and how far it can ruined christian society; as for many centuries history facts have been demonstrated... To sum up, and following Catholic Doctrine, Father Dennis Fahey show us the only way the world should be rule is under the principles of Christ the King, joining his Mystical Body. Reading this book will find you all the time wasted not learning about the jewish danger all over the world!

Auther Leon Aron (resident scholar and director of Russian studies, American Enterprise Institute) presents Russia's Revolution: Essays 1989-2006, an in-depth history, examination, and critique of the transformations that have beset Russian government and society in modern history. From the birth of a new business ethic, to the tragedy of the wars in Chechnya, to the tenacity of the draft despite public's bitter opposition (and Russia's grim history of conscripting soldiers, training and equipping them poorly while subjecting them to brutal horrors and flagrant incompetence of the higher levels of command), and the darker side of the "Putin Restoration" that threatens to reverse the progress that has been made, Russia's Revolution as guarded in its outlook for the future as it is thorough in its analysis. An absolute "must-read" for students and scholars of modern Russian history, and enthusiastically recommended for public and college library shelves.

After years of devouring Russian literature, including translated classics of Vasily Grossman and Andrei Platonov of the Soviet era, I was feeling despondent and more than a little irritated. As gorgeous and compassionate as these books were, to my shame I was beginning to believe in the Russian "slave soul".

Then one night: CSPAN's Book TV and Leon Aron. Writing (and speaking) in superb English (like Joseph Conrad, another eastern European writing in a language not his own), Aron took journalist nay-sayers to task for their shallow critiques--and their forgetful memories. These essays, written from 1989 to the present, constitute not only an argument for patience and vigilance (citing the West's thousand years of gradually-developing property and human rights law). They also reflect the author's hopes and fears as history unfolded around him.

Do you remember those days, when miracles happened? When the wall came down, and the secret police fled? When marches and elections happened nearly every day? Aron not only reviews how far Russia and her victimized satellites have come, he also increasingly worries about its Putin-controlled future. In twenty-one tight little essays, he covers the still-brutal army (and the political party it spawned), the rise and cleansing of the "oligarchs", poor democracies and their natures. He details the extraordinary connection between Russia and its literature, and introduces us to a new literary hero for the people. He waxes poetic about food, and the burgeoning middle class who eat it (do NOT read this essay hungry).

Aron covers the quasi-"capticalistic" state and its current grabs for power ("restoration"), the arrests of key business leaders, and what this means. His essay on Chechnya alone should be read by anyone in government, and certainly by anyone who cares about terrorism. Oil, weapons, information, land and law--all are covered in a style so lucid it astonishes

It may be years beore Russia reaches economic parity with the West. Aron asserts that success in the former USSR has less to do with economics and everything to do with emotional and moral maturity--throwing off the mental yoke of the past. Only a heartbeat ago, hundreds of millions of people were corrupted or destroyed by their State--a state that claimed to speak for the people. And if Russia's torturors are once again rousing themselves, then so, Aron says, are their former victims. We can count on Mr. Aron to keep us posted on their condition, and by extension, our own.

Leon Aron was a young man of 24 when he came to the United States from Russia in 1978. He received his Ph.D. from Columbia in 1985 and is a biographer of Boris Yeltsin. He is also a great admirer and supporter of what Yeltsin did to help its revolution away from Soviet totalitarianism in its early years.

This book is a collection of essays that begin in 1989 with the storms unleashed by Glasnost and Perestroika. I found Aron's analysis of why they were so striking to Russians and their historical traditions to be quite fascinating. He takes us into the early years of Russian "Capitalism" and how the culture's complete lack of preparation for such a thing (it didn't have either the proper laws or social traditions) led to state sanctioned theft on a massive scale.

His essays looking at the social aspects of the new revolution are among the most enjoyable in the book. I loved the essay on the return of Russian eating - dining out and such. The look at freedom, the middle class, and the construction of a "self" in the new society is quite intriguing.

There is then a group of essays looking at Yeltsin and what he meant or might have meant to the rebirth of Russia. Aron then has a group of essays on Putin. He tries to show us the new strongman in light of Russian history and does not subscribe to the threat some see in him. Of course, the essays end in 2006 and we shall see how the Putin years end. Or will they?

Having thoroughly enjoyed Brooks' biography of Donna Gracia Nasi (THE WOMAN WHO DEFIED KINGS), I was looking forward to her new book very much. I was not disappointed - this is a terrific read, full of historical details, romance, suspense, irony, real tragedy, and all carried off by Brooks with intelligence, wit and style.
I cannot recommend this book too highly!!!!

Andree Brooks has created a fascinating book. Her observations about people and human nature are alarmingly astute. She teaches about a little-known, but important, period in history, but she does not lecture the reader who is far too engrossed in the tragic relationship of Marc and Bluett to realize that he/she has learned something along the way. This is a book that you will gobble up in one sitting (not often said about a book drenched with history) -- and will linger with you for days to come.

Author Andree Aelion Brooks renders the story of Bluet Rabinoff and Marc Cheftel so compellingly that one is tempted to read the book in one sitting -- not only to find out what happens next in this story of a great love, but also to appreciate the meticulously researched details of a turbulent era in world history. Whether the setting is the opulent world of the arts that Bluet inhabits in New York City in the late 1920s, or the day-to-day bleak subsistence and terror of Stalinist Moscow in 1931, Brooks creates a sense of immediacy and urgency -- a true "you are there" quality.

In addition to chronicling the joys and perils of a great passion between two unique people, the book also serves as a cautionary tale about the unintended consequences of idealogy and nation-building. Moreover, it makes clear how historical events affect the most personal of issues: love, friendship, parenthood, loyalty. In sum, an excellent book, well worth reading.

This is one of two volumes of Russian fairy tales, lavishly illustrated with full color reproductions of lacquer miniature paintings. This volume gives a fairly detailed description of the process of creating this folk art form, beginning with the fabrication of the papier-mache' box or plaque, through the mixing of the egg-tempura or oil paints, to the fine details of the miniature masterpieces. All four Villages, or styles, of the art are represented, featuring the works of world-reknowned Masters. For any collector of fine lacquer art from Palekh, Kholui, Mstera, and Fedoskino; or for anyone who enjoys Russian folk tales; this is a wonderful, high-quality book. It also makes a very nice gift.

This is the second of two volumes of Russian fairy tales, illustrated with stunning color reproductions of "lacquer-miniature" masterpieces. The art of miniature oil painting began in Fedoskino centuries ago, and today features realistic renderings of village life, portraits, and archetecture. The villages of Palekh, Kholui, and Mstera were long the center for ikon painting, with successive generations following the tradition of apprenticing with Masters. Ikons were painted with the extremely durable egg-tempura paints, utilizing natural dyes. After the Bolshevik Revolution, iconography was discouraged, and painters from these three schools began depicting pagan folk tales, troikas and village life, heroic legend, history, and "inspirational" revolutionary themes. Traditional iconic style distinguishes the works of these little rural villages, whose artists still use the ancient techniques and materials. Many of today's Masters are currently working to restore treasured ikons damaged under Stalinist decree. The beautiful glossy photos in these volumes represent some of the best work of Russia's Master painters. For collectors of this appealing art, or for those who appreciate intricate Russian folk tales, the Lucy Maxym series is a wonderful addition to your library.

Lucy Maxym has written two authoritative books on the subject of Russian fairy tales and the beautiful laquer art that depicts these folktales. This is one volume of a two volume set. Unfortunately there is no cover art available online to show the magnificent scene shown from Voron Voronovich or The Raven. When the book is opened up it shows the complete panel that is the actual size. There are over one hundred full color plates that are beyond description with their delicate intricacy and unsurpassed attention to minute detail. The precise tempura egg based brush strokes are unbelieveable. They are in a word, exquisite. I've enjoyed this book for years and have it handy for quick and easy inspiration. Many of the color illustrations are actual size which allows the viewer to appreciate the intricate finesse involved in the small works of art. Sometimes a magnifying glass helps to appreciate the fine detail. The subtlety and skill in producing these works of art is nothing short of amazing. The actual text is complete, concise and explains the nineteen Russian legends and fairy tales chosen. My own interest grew out of a collection of plates I have from some of these folktales where I wanted to know more about the story behind the magnificent laquered plates. I found this book to be helpful to understanding the tales and was even more pleased by the art work included. If you like Russian folktales or the miniature lacquer paintings this book will bring much joy throughout the years, year after year. Get both volumes for a double treat.

Spacesuits should be of renewed interest with the upcoming private space tourist ventures.

I bought this book after I had the opportunity to examine, hands-on, a Russian SOKOL rescue suit. What struck me was the sheer simplicity of the design and I wanted to know more about this suit.

This book provides much of that background, plus that of the famous Orlan EVA suits and others in the history of the Russian space program.

Compared to the related books on US Spacesuits (Springer Praxis Books / Space Exploration), it is remarkable how different Russian suits are, and how much more conservative their designs are. Russian suits, like their spacecraft are relatively stable designs undergoing incremental improvements, probably in response to the much fewer resources available to them for development.

The book covers the development well, although I did not notice any mention of ideas borrowed from US suits, whereas the book on US spacesuits has a wry mention of the remarkable similarity of some US suit components to Russian ones.

As with the US spacesuit book, the same comments on the lack of color illustrations and technical details apply.

In Russia, the need for suits to be worn in the upper atmosphere, developed in the 1930:ies, engendered the suits to be used in spacecrafts, outside spacecrafts and on the Moon. Naturally, the use of a protective garment inside the space cabin was the first usage, Juri Gagarin wore such a garment on his historic flight. Even today the protective garment is the iconic spacesuit, which we see Cosmonaut wearing as their uniforms for the trip off the Earth. Suits for extravehicular activities, EVA, are quite different. The Soviet Union, of course, never made it to the lunar surface, but had a cosmonaut, probably Alexei Leonov, made a landing, he would have been dressed for the occasion. After all, the first Space Walk ever was also a first testing of a garment to be worn on the Moon, by the man who was supposed to wear it!
The space suit technology, as developed in the Soviet Union, was even applicable to our canine friends, some of which did ballistic flights into space dressed more or less like the dog Milou in Hergés "Tin-Tin on the Moon". Thus we know where to turn if we want to walk our dogs on the Moon.
When Westerners started to fly in space alongside the Soviets, later Russians, in Saljut, Mir and International Space Station, it was as had inhabitants from different planets met. Now we may appreciate all those differences in technical culture as exemplified in the space suits of the Cosmonauts. There is, of course all the common ground resulting from like problems demanding like solutions, but overlying we see these subtle differences arising from different technical and engineering usages of two different cultures.
The book is co-authored by some of the actual developers of space suits in the then Soviet Union, later Russia, and thus as authoritative on the subject as can be. Fascinatingly, also, the historical developments inside the Soviet Union/Russia and internationally, reflect in much that the space suit developers had to contend with.
The scope of common activities betveen the Russians and the West European ESA was news to this rewiewer. We also note, that the Chinese "taikonauts" wear protective suits designed by the nowadays "Zvezda Development and Production Company". We also read of the challenge of rendering original technical texts in Russian into readable English, and concomitant difficulties inherent in the fact that, not only is translation of language required, but even the transliteration from one system of letters, i.e. Cyrillic, into our Roman alphabet poses its own problems and pitfalls. On the whole, the endeavour has been crowned with success. The system of measurements are, thankfully, the same on both sides of this barrier of language and glyphs.
All in all fascinating facts from a space program now slowly opening itself to inquisitive Western eyes. Great hopes for the future is embodied in the prospects of joint developments of the advanced spacesuits for space station EVA and the lunar and martian surfaces.

This is an excellent book with details not before shown outside the formerly closed confines of the old Soviet space program, except in various technical society papers. It has many excellent b&w photos and diagrams of Russian spacesuits from the SK-1, used for Vostok, up to the most modern Russian investigations of Mars EVA suits. The text is somewhat general in content though well written. It is also done in the typical style of Russian/English transliteration. Readers in the West, if they have not previously read any Russian technical papers, may find the transliteration hard to follow at times; but, this does not detract from the value of Mr. Ibramov's good work. If I had any complaint about the book it would be two items. First, the book lacks some technical detail in specific areas, so it sometimes creates more questions than it answers. If I did not already have a background in pressure suits some explanations would have confused me. The inclusion of a few explanatory drawings could have avoided this. Second, while the book gives credit, for the first time, as to which designers at Zvzeda created various general concepts, it does not often shed light on specific contributions, or the dynamimics involved in individual contributions. Nevertheless,I recomend this book. It is a MUST for your library. If the reader wants a technical look at Russian spacesuits I recommend "Pressure Suits and Systems For Work In The Open Cosmos" by Abramov, Severin, Stoklitsky and Sharipov. It is, however, a nearly impossible to find textbook.

Russian Symbolism seems to be a peculiar literary movement at first glance. But Russian Symbolists inherited very much from German romantics. I'm also a student of Russian Symbolism, especially of Ivanov's heritage, like the author. I was captivated by this book. This fascinating book has become for me a model of my research (especially the chapter 10 is splendid!): a "mirror" of what I think about Ivanov. An excellent book both for specialists and for simple literature lovers.

A trenchant investigation of an essential subject. Rarely have I encountered such a profound treatment of this highly intriguing subject. The book is a must for anyone interested in German-Russian literary relations.

Russian Symbolism seems to be a peculiar literary movement at first glance. But Russian Symbolists inherited very much from German romantics. I'm also a student of Russian Symbolism, especially of Ivanov's heritage, like the author. I was captivated by this book. This fascinating book has become for me a model of my research (especially the chapter 10 is splendid!): a "mirror" of what I think about Ivanov. An excellent book both for specialists and for simple literature lovers.

Following a pair of disappointing titles from the late 70s that tinkered with the conceptual premise of the character and series, "The Scorpion Signal" not only stands as a return to form for Elleston Trevor's embittered agent Quiller, but works to further delve into the fears and motivations of its principle players. Trevor himself (writing as Adam Hall) brilliantly delivers a continually taut, believable plot that will keep readers genuinely interested. In a way, it has always been Quiller's fallibility and flaws that has kept the character believable, if not fascinating. Quiller remains tough, professional, and even funny sometimes, but is neither a superman nor a comic caricature. Never before has his fallibility been so prevalent and it is a credit to Trevor's abilities that this ninth entry seems as fresh as his earlier titles.

Story-wise, Quiller is called upon to work inside Soviet Moscow to investigate the abduction of one of his friends and fellow executive, Shapiro. This time around, the imposing atmosphere of having to work inside an enemy police state richly adds to the suspense. Likewise, among a cell of agents whom he has never worked with, Quiller is faced with being handed over to the KGB by a "Judas" and ends up being taken to the infamous Lubyanka prison for interrogation. In other words, the more superficial architecture of the story provides an environment that is uniquely ripe for suspense. As with the other Quiller books, the really intriguing aspect though is how Quiller introspectively reasons his way through one spot after another and how, in spite of his best rationale, circumstances often work against him. Quiller's ultimate encounter with the "Judas" who has betrayed him is an amazing highlight. Similar scenarios have been played out elsewhere, but few have offered such emotive details.

I offer a couple minor notes of criticism, however. First, there is a bit of an over-reliance on car crashes this time out and at least one is superfluous. Second, the character Ignatov straddles between deadly professional and innocent victim of blackmail. As always, the concept of blackmailing someone into committing crimes they have little stake in seems quite silly. These are, however, minor quibbles that are not worthy of detracting from this masterful work as a whole.

Probably the best (but certainly one of the best) in Hall's Quiller-series. It tackles a number of issues & just in the right proportion. We learn the most about Quiller, his personality, sense of honour from this book: the scene in Lyublyanka is quite enlightening. The agent who's ready to die for the Bureau, but kills for his sense of pride; and who wouldn't betray his word to his (ex)-friend not even to save his own life. The perfect mixture of adventure, plot and the tackling of existential questions.

I must declare an interest: This book is dedicated to me. It's the eighth of 19 brilliant escapades starring the lean and mean Quiller, about whom reviewers have observed, "the ultimate pro, cynical, hard and master of the double-think ... businesslike, low-keyed, nondescript."

An Englishman, Adam Hall - real name Elleston Trevor - died at his Arizona home in 1996, one day after completing "Quiller Balalaika", scandalously still not taken up by an American publisher. However, the In Memoriam tributes from writers and reviewers around the world set in motion reprints of all his earlier works, including those under his various noms-de-plume (many of which have been misleadingly rejacketed as Adam Hall titles, thus giving the impression of a post-humous cache of new Quillers).

"The Scorpion Signal" is Hall at his tense and entertaining best, opening with Q in foul mood with his employers and actually turning down the mission before the full gravity of the situation sinks in: A fellow agent - another top executive in the field - has been put through interrogation at Lubyanka, escaped, and been *re-captured*. And he knows everything about one of British intelligence's most valuable Moscow-based cells, enough to blow the agency sky high. Quiller's job: To get into the KGB fortress and out again with his target intact. Only Adam Hall could conceive such a suicidally improbable mission for his man and succeed so convincingly. Even with the change of political climate and the demise of that whole genre of cold war thrillers, the Quiller canon continue to crackle on the page for their sheet storytelling excitement and what one reviewer spotted as Hall's "scholar's way of relishing the finer points of his discipline for their own sake." One of the doyens of this trade is no longer with us but his hero lives on to keep new readers on the edge of their seats and to show newcomers how it's really done. If you don't know Q, start with the equally capable "Quiller Memorandum" and work up, and I envy you the pleasures in store.

Wow-Michael Krupa's story is utterly amazing in every detail! The fact that he survived a gunshot wound to his head by the evil NKVD, and lived to tell about it is nothing short of miraculous. The power of faith in the loving peasant, Christian couple who nurtured him back to health and helped him escape the clutches of the notorious and brutal Siberian Labor Camps during Stalin's reign of terror is incredible. This is one of those WWII memoirs that will stay with me for the rest of my life! I read it in one day it was so fascinating and absorbed every ounce of my attention. I feel that this book should be read by every student of WWII and those just interested in Siberian labor camps. A PERFECT memoir in every way!

This is truly an amazing story and what is more amazing is that Michael Krupa is now in his 91st year and going strong.
A book you have to read in one sitting, you cannot put it down.

Highly recommended story of personal struggle and survival!

What starts out as one Polish man's journey to find his calling in pre-war Poland, turns into a survival story of epic proportions when in 1939 the Germans and the Soviets invade.

Michael Krupa tells you his amazing and true story of life for a Polish soldier on the run in WWII. He escapes the Germans only to be captured by the Soviets and suspected as a German spy. This may have saved his life because if they knew he was a Polish solder he may have been sent directly to be executed in Katyn Forest along with 20,000 of his fellow soldiers who perished there.

Lubianka prison and the worst of Soviet torture was his destination. Somehow he survived was 'lucky' enough to eventually be sent to Siberia. It is from there that he manages an escape and trek all the way across the Soviet Union to Afghanistan and freedom. UNBELIEVABLE story - I could not put it down!

Shows the best of the Polish spirit to survive despite the worst circumstances. Also suggested reading - The Polish Spirit by Wladyslaw Wojcik - a story of Polish soldier who survives the camps in Siberia and is able to join the Polish 2nd Corp and fight under the British.

The authors were offered the opportunity to attend the initiation of a traditional Buryat shaman to the third level (there are nine in their tradition). The book talks about the trials and difficulties Volodya had until his elder shamans lead by Bayir Rinchinov determined why the initiation was failing. Many photos that were permitted by the group are included. Just an excellent look into authentic and traditional Siberian shamanism.

In an era of neo-Shamanism and cold-hearted anthropology, it is very nice to see an increase in books where the authors are both practitioners and scientists. Shanar is quite impressive. The ritual appears authentic, the photographs are remarkable, and the text is quite intriguing.

If you're the type who wants to have Shamanism presented in a non-threatening, non-cultural, easy-to-digest-as-a-Westerner, fluffy New Age way ... this isn't the book for you. This is a ride through a very important ritual and thru the Buryat culture. The average Western reader isn't going to understand everything on the first pass - and it isn't about perfection. Its about Human beings trying to connect with their ancestors and the Spirits of their world. Its a serious business.

Because the authors are well versed in Shamanims themselves they tend to treat the ritual with honor and respect.

This is not a how-to book of Shamanism, it is a chance to see the real thing in action. Five stars seems too few.

The collaborative effort of Virlana Tkacz, Sayan Zhambalov, and Wanda Phipps, and filled with a wealth of 175 gorgeous, full color photographs, Shanar: Dedication Ritual Of A Buryat Shaman In Siberia accurately depicts the dedication rituals, rites, and ceremony of a Buryat Shaman in Siberia. The informed and informative text describes all of the various aspects of the ceremony in wondrous, heartfelt, and painstaking detail, which combine to fully capture and present the this sacred rite with all respect and an appreciative humility. Shanar is a very highly recommended contribution to Comparative Religion and Anthropology reference collections and supplemental reading lists.