Russians

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From former NPR Moscow correspondent Gregory Feifer comes an incisive portrait that draws on vivid personal stories to portray the forces shaping the Russian character for centuries. The narrative explores the paradoxes of life in Russia, unraveling the nature of its people and their historical desires, which often baffle the West. Feifer, leveraging his decade of journalistic experience in Russia, corrects misconceptions by revealing that much of what seems inexplicable is logical from an insider's perspective. He delves into why Russia, a leading energy producer, continues to frustrate the international community and examines the enduring popularity of President Vladimir Putin amid stark economic disparities. Traveling across the vast country, from the North Caucasus to Arctic Siberia, Feifer engages in intimate conversations about topics ranging from sex and vodka to Russia's complex global relationships. He portrays a society teeming with vitality, juxtaposed against a backdrop of authoritarian leadership and potential collapse. Drawing on historical experiences and cultural insights, he sheds light on the hidden workings of Russian society before, during, and after communism. Interwoven is a personal account of his family history, highlighting his Russian mother’s artistic upbringing and his American father's encounters with the KGB. The result is a compelling portrait of a land of extremes, where harsh geography and co