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pheelmphree 's review for:
The New Tsar: The Rise and Reign of Vladimir Putin
by Steven Lee Myers
Steven Lee Myers did a superb job with The New Tsar! I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to get into the mindset of one of the world's most influential leaders, whether you love Russian President Vladimir Putin or hate him. Myers draws on his years as a New York Times journalist in Russia, his access to key elite figures in Russian society, and well-placed Kremlin contacts to trace Putin's personal story and his rise as the steward of a resurgent, and often at odds with the West, Russia.
I felt that Myers was objective throughout his account, juxtaposing key events in recent Russian history to Putin's life experiences. The New Tsar details Putin's transformation from a more or less accidental leader to Russia's indispensable man, one who has increasingly linked his country's national interests to himself. Myers expertly contextualizes Putin's growing insular leadership style and his preference to surround himself with other like-minded and deeply suspicious Russian hardliners.
Most importantly, Myers' account of Putin's life is an excellent backdrop to how Russia's relations with some Western countries, especially the United States, have deteriorated so badly in recent years. For anyone looking to better understand the state of play between Russia and the West, and Russia's recent initiatives in world affairs, this book is an absolute must read.
I felt that Myers was objective throughout his account, juxtaposing key events in recent Russian history to Putin's life experiences. The New Tsar details Putin's transformation from a more or less accidental leader to Russia's indispensable man, one who has increasingly linked his country's national interests to himself. Myers expertly contextualizes Putin's growing insular leadership style and his preference to surround himself with other like-minded and deeply suspicious Russian hardliners.
Most importantly, Myers' account of Putin's life is an excellent backdrop to how Russia's relations with some Western countries, especially the United States, have deteriorated so badly in recent years. For anyone looking to better understand the state of play between Russia and the West, and Russia's recent initiatives in world affairs, this book is an absolute must read.