From Library Journal
This book consists of a series of "conversations" between eminent Soviet historian Medvedev and Chiesa, Moscow correspondent of the Italian Communist newspaper L'Unita. They offer an unparalleled chronicle of events from Gorbachev's accession in 1985 to early 1989. The study is one of personalities, of the struggle between conservatives (the stubborn Yegor Ligachev, the enigmatic Nina Andreyeva) and Gorbachev supporters (the loyal Alexander Yakolev, the erratic Boris Yeltsin). The authors' abundant sympathy for Gorbachev spares their subject serious criticism or interpretation, but their subtle blend of detail and context compensates for this shortcoming. Though the book may overwhelm newcomers to the study of Soviet politics, most readers will be well rewarded. Recommended for larger public and most academic libraries.
- Zachary T. Irwin, Pennsylvania State Univ., Erie
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.