{"title":"Russian \u0026 Soviet History","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDive into the rich and tumultuous history of Russia and its society with Book Hero’s Russian \u0026amp; Soviet History collection. This selection covers the rise of the Russian Empire, the transformative events of the Soviet era, and the complexities of post-Soviet society. Explore key figures, political movements, and cultural shifts that have shaped the nation, from the reign of the Tsars to the Bolshevik Revolution and beyond. Ideal for history enthusiasts and scholars, these books offer a nuanced understanding of Russia’s intricate past and its lasting impact on the world stage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"natashas-dance","title":"Natasha's Dance","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eNatasha's Dance\u003c\/em\u003e by Orlando Figes is an enthralling exploration of Russian culture and identity that spans centuries and geographical boundaries. The book intricately weaves a rich tapestry of stories and characters, illuminating the evolution of Russia from the splendour of 18th-century St Petersburg to the relentless drive of Stalinist propaganda. Through an evocative narrative, Figes brings to life an extraordinary cast of serf artists and aristocrats, revolutionaries and exiles, priests and libertines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eInspired by a memorable scene in Tolstoy's \u003cem\u003eWar and Peace\u003c\/em\u003e, where the young Countess Natasha instinctively dances to a peasant melody, Figes delves into the heart of Russian cultural identity. This scene symbolises the deep-rooted and instinctive connection Russians have to their cultural heritage, no matter their social standing or foreign education.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFiges' examination extends beyond literature to encompass the entirety of Russian artistic expression. From the poignant poetry of Pushkin and the emotive music of Mussorgsky to the revolutionary films of Eisenstein, \u003cem\u003eNatasha's Dance\u003c\/em\u003e showcases the diverse elements that have shaped Russian culture. The book also explores folk art, magic rituals of Asiatic shamans, and the resilience shown by ordinary people in the face of historical upheavals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOrlando Figes demonstrates how Russia's sense of identity is uniquely embedded in its culture, not only in its renowned artistic creations but also in common customs, habits, and beliefs. Despite the vastness and diversity of the Russian landscape, a distinctive national temperament has unified its people, enabling them to withstand immense adversity. From European Russia to the depths of Asia, this shared cultural core has held the nation together throughout its turbulent history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eNatasha's Dance\u003c\/em\u003e offers readers an immersive experience, providing a profound understanding of what it means to be Russian. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the cultural forces that have shaped one of the world's most enigmatic and resilient nations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45658000261356,"sku":"9780140297966","price":33.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780140297966.jpg?v=1724847728"},{"product_id":"putin","title":"Putin","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe monumental biography of the most influential leader on the world stage in the last twenty years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eVladimir Putin is a pariah to the West.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eHe has the power to reduce the West to nuclear ashes. He invades his neighbours, meddles in western elections, and orders assassinations. Yet many Russians continue to support him. Under Putin's leadership, Russia has once again become a force to be reckoned with.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePhilip Short's magisterial biography, \u003cem\u003ePutin\u003c\/em\u003e, explores in unprecedented depth the personality of Russia's leader and demolishes many of our preconceptions about Putin's Russia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eTo explain is not to justify. Putin's regime is dark. But, on closer examination, much of what we think we know about him turns out to rest on half-truths. This book is as close as we will come to understanding Russia's ruler.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45658033094892,"sku":"9781784700935","price":30.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781784700935.jpg?v=1724848245"},{"product_id":"overreach","title":"Overreach","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWinner of the Pushkin House Book Prize 2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Telegraph Book of the Year\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eA Times Best Book of Summer 2023\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eShortlisted for the Parliamentary Book Awards\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAn astonishing investigation into the start of the Russo-Ukrainian war – from the corridors of the Kremlin to the trenches of Mariupol. The Russo-Ukrainian War is the most serious geopolitical crisis since the Second World War – and yet at the heart of the conflict is a mystery. Vladimir Putin apparently lurched from a calculating, subtle master of opportunity to a reckless gambler, putting his regime – and Russia itself – at risk of destruction. Why?\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eDrawing on over 25 years’ experience as a correspondent in Moscow, as well as his own family ties to Russia and Ukraine, journalist Owen Matthews takes us through the poisoned historical roots of the conflict, into the Covid bubble where Putin conceived his invasion plans in a fog of paranoia about Western threats, and finally into the inner circle around Ukrainian president and unexpected war hero Volodimir Zelensky.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eUsing the accounts of current and former insiders from the Kremlin and its propaganda machine, the testimony of captured Russian soldiers and on-the-ground reporting from Russia and Ukraine, \u003cem\u003eOverreach\u003c\/em\u003e tells the story not only of the war’s causes but how the first six months unfolded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith its panoramic view, \u003cem\u003eOverreach\u003c\/em\u003e is an authoritative, unmissable record of a conflict that shocked Europe to its core.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45686295855340,"sku":"9780008562786","price":29.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780008562786.jpg?v=1725465249"},{"product_id":"the-new-tsar","title":"The New Tsar","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe epic tale of Vladimir Putin's path to power, as he emerged from obscurity to become one of the world's most important and dangerous leaders.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003ci\u003eThe New Tsar\u003c\/i\u003e, Steven Lee Myers, the former \u003ci\u003eNew York Times\u003c\/i\u003e Moscow Bureau Chief, presents a meticulously detailed portrait of Vladimir Putin's meteoric rise from a hard-scrabble childhood in Leningrad to the summit of Russian political power. This compelling biography unveils the enigmatic persona of Putin, whose journey from an intelligence officer in the KGB to a resolute leader with an unyielding grip on Russia's future is nothing short of extraordinary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMyers has been tracking Putin's career long before Putin's aggressive moves in Ukraine, providing readers with the most comprehensive, well-researched, and engaging account of his ascent. The narrative captures Putin's evolution from a reformer who initially advocated economic reforms and political stability, to a leader renowned for his authoritarian rule and geopolitical ambitions, including invasions and military interventions in Crimea and the Middle East.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout the book, readers are introduced to a meticulous and calculated leader, with boundless ambition and scant regard for opposition. As Putin consolidated power, he brought about economic reforms that improved the lives of many Russians, yet his tenure has also been marked by an unprecedented crackdown on dissent, media freedoms, and political opposition. Myers’ account delves deep into these dichotomies, exploring how Putin's policies have shaped Russia and its place on the global stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe importance of understanding Putin has never been greater as the world grapples with a resurgent Russia, emboldened by its leader’s audacious strategies. \u003ci\u003eThe New Tsar\u003c\/i\u003e not only offers a profound insight into Putin’s machinations but also reflects on the broader historical and socio-political context that has enabled his enduring command.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe New Tsar\u003c\/i\u003e is a tour de force in biographical literature, an essential read for anyone seeking to grasp the complexities of one of the most pivotal and destabilising figures in recent history. Steven Lee Myers' exhaustive research and engaging prose make this book an indispensable resource for understanding the indelible impact of Vladimir Putin's rule on Russia and the world.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"HarperCollins New Zealand","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45687006396652,"sku":"9781471130649","price":26.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781471130649.jpg?v=1725472100"},{"product_id":"hitler-and-stalin","title":"Hitler and Stalin","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHitler and Stalin\u003c\/em\u003e by Laurence Rees provides an in-depth comparative study of the two most infamous dictators of the 20th century, examining their roles during World War II. This meticulously researched book delves into the complex and often chilling relationship between Adolf Hitler and Joseph Stalin. It paints a detailed picture of how these tyrants forged, broke, and redefined alliances amid the chaos of the largest and bloodiest war in history. The narrative weaves through the ideological battlefield, revealing the unimaginable human cost of their ruthless pursuits for power and control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThough sworn enemies, Hitler and Stalin shared disturbingly similar traits, each driven by a vision of a utopia that justified unimaginable atrocities. Hitler’s horrific orchestration of the Holocaust is portrayed alongside Stalin’s own series of brutal policies, including the purges, forced famines, and the Great Terror. Rees meticulously compares their methods of manipulation, brutality against their own people, and their use of propaganda to bend historical facts to their advantage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eRees draws on thirty years of research and includes startling, previously unpublished eyewitness testimonies. These accounts come from soldiers of both the Red Army and the Wehrmacht, civilians who endured the harrowing impact of the conflict, and individuals who had direct interactions with Hitler and Stalin. Such firsthand stories provide a vivid, human dimension to the narrative, challenging long-held misconceptions and shedding new light on these historical figures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eAs probably the only historian alive who has personally met Germans who worked for Hitler and Russians who worked for Stalin, Rees brings a unique perspective to the subject. His unparalleled access to sources and his ability to synthesise vast amounts of historical data make this book an authoritative and engaging read. Readers are offered a nuanced understanding of how two men, driven by a relentless quest for power, shaped the 20th century in ways that continue to reverberate today.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eHitler and Stalin\u003c\/em\u003e is a master work by Laurence Rees, capturing the essence of two of history's most pivotal leaders. It’s a compelling, enlightening, and deeply unsettling exploration of how their legacies intertwined and the long-lasting impact of their reigns. 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This riveting narrative follows John Baker, a well-known dealer of rare and exquisite wines, as he is presented with a mysterious wine list that promises an adventure beyond his wildest dreams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn the late 1990s, Baker, always entrepreneurial and ready for a new challenge, is approached by a business partner with a peculiar list of wines. Neither he nor his second-in-command, Kevin Hopko, have ever encountered such a catalogue before. Upon closer inspection, they discover it is a comprehensive inventory of the wine collection once owned by Nicholas II, the last Tsar of Russia. This extraordinary collection became state property after the Russian Revolution of 1918, when Nicholas and his family were tragically executed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThis extraordinary cellar, now in the hands of Stalin, was secretly transported to a secluded winery in Georgia during World War II. 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The journey is fraught with challenges, as they navigate the complex and often dangerous world of high-stakes wine dealing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eStalin's Wine Cellar\u003c\/em\u003e is a thrilling ride through the opulent world of fine wines, from Double Bay in Sydney to Tbilisi, Georgia, with stops in the streets of Paris and the vineyards of Bordeaux, including the famed Château d'Yquem. The tale is peppered with larger-than-life characters such as Stalin, Hitler, Tsar Nicholas II, and a colourful band of Georgian businessmen and cowboys, complete with handguns. This venture unfolds during the early days of Russian business development, a precursor to the present-day era of Putin and the oligarchs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eReaders will be captivated by this wild journey through history and opulence, with a multimillion-dollar wine cellar at its heart and an unexpectedly expensive broken bottle adding to the narrative's tension. Whether you're a history aficionado, a wine enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good adventure, \u003cem\u003eStalin's Wine Cellar\u003c\/em\u003e promises a spellbinding experience that brings together the allure of historical treasures and the high-stakes world of vintage wine trading.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45692353446124,"sku":"9781761043666","price":23.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781761043666.jpg?v=1725582902"},{"product_id":"the-gulag-archipelago","title":"The Gulag Archipelago","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Gulag Archipelago\u003c\/em\u003e by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn is a monumental work that provides a harrowing account of the Soviet Union's labour camp system. Set against a vast canvas of camps, prisons, transit centres, and secret police, the narrative unfolds the grim realities of informers, spies, and interrogators while simultaneously celebrating instances of everyday heroism. This literary masterpiece, based on the testimony of approximately 200 survivors, as well as Solzhenitsyn’s own eleven-year ordeal in labour camps and exile, delves into the profound depths of human suffering and resilience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith a new foreword by Jordan B. Peterson, this edition of \u003cem\u003eThe Gulag Archipelago\u003c\/em\u003e has been compiled into one volume at the author's request and with his full co-operation. It is a meticulously researched document, demonstrating immense literary and imaginative power. 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Trotsky's meticulous attention to detail and his ability to convey the momentous significance of the Russian Revolution render this book an indispensable resource for historians, students, and anyone interested in the dynamics of revolutionary change.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eWith its rich historical context and penetrating insights, \u003ci\u003eHistory of the Russian Revolution\u003c\/i\u003e not only chronicles a pivotal moment in world history but also illuminates the ideological and personal passions that drive revolutionary movements. 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In the midst of checking on loved ones who were now on the front lines of Europe's largest conflict since the Second World War, acclaimed Ukrainian-American historian Serhii Plokhy inevitably found himself attempting to understand the deeper causes of the invasion, analysing its course and contemplating the wider consequences.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Russo-Ukrainian War\u003c\/em\u003e is the comprehensive history of a conflict that has burned since 2014, and that, with Russia's attempt to seize Kyiv, exploded a geo-political order that had been cemented since the end of the Cold War. With an eye for the gripping detail on the ground, both in the halls of power and down in the trenches, as well as a keen sense of the grander sweep of history, Plokhy traces the origins and the evolution of the conflict, from the collapse of the Russian empire to the rise and fall of the USSR, and on to the development in Ukraine of a democratic politics soon loathed by its neighbour in the east.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePlokhy argues that Ukraine's defiance of Russia, and the West's demonstration of unity and strength, has presented a profound challenge to Putin's Great Power ambition, and further polarised the world along a new axis. A riveting, enlightening account, this is present-minded history at its best.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45695938625772,"sku":"9781802061789","price":30.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781802061789.jpg?v=1725641933"},{"product_id":"the-spy-and-the-traitor","title":"The Spy and the Traitor","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Spy and the Traitor\u003c\/em\u003e by Ben Macintyre is a spellbinding Cold War thriller that unravels the true story of Oleg Gordievsky, a KGB double agent who risked everything to aid the British in the battle against Soviet oppression. In meticulously researched detail, Macintyre paints a vivid portrait of espionage, double-crossing, and unparalleled bravery, giving readers a riveting glimpse into a clandestine world where deception is the norm and the stakes are sky-high.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eOn a warm July evening in 1985, a conspicuous figure stood on the pavement of a bustling Moscow street, clutching a plastic carrier bag emblazoned with the red logo of Safeway, a British supermarket. Despite his otherwise nondescript appearance—grey suit and tie—this man was anything but ordinary. He was Oleg Gordievsky, a high-ranking KGB officer who had spent over a decade covertly supplying his British handlers with some of the most sensitive and damaging intelligence about the Soviet Union.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eThe Safeway bag was no random accessory; it was a signal, a desperate cry for help to initiate his escape from Soviet clutches. What followed was a high-stakes, nerve-wracking extraction plan that aimed to smuggle Gordievsky out of Russia, an operation laden with danger and ripe for catastrophe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMacintyre's narrative masterfully interlaces Gordievsky's undercover activities with the broader geopolitical context of the Cold War, creating a tapestry rich in detail and pulsating with tension. He brings to life the shadowy figures of the espionage world, from the resolute British intelligence agents to the relentless Soviet operatives, all bound in a timeless dance of wits and wills.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe Spy and the Traitor\u003c\/em\u003e is not just a tale of audacious espionage but a deeply human story of betrayal, loyalty, and courage. Gordievsky's actions not only inflicted unprecedented damage on the KGB but also tilted the scales in the global power struggle, influencing the course of history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eReaders of this stunning work will find themselves immersed in an incredible saga that reveals the true costs of espionage and the extraordinary bravery required to confront an oppressive regime from within. Ben Macintyre delivers a gripping, heart-pounding account that captures the perilous allure of spy craft and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to challenge the most formidable adversaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Penguin Random House NZ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45695994822892,"sku":"9780241972137","price":21.0,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780241972137_9ed053b1-1859-4ac0-b706-65f6eb14a02a.jpg?v=1755490969"},{"product_id":"catherine-the-great","title":"Catherine The Great","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe fascinating true story behind HBO's \u003cem\u003eCatherine the Great\u003c\/em\u003e starring Dame Helen Mirren as Catherine the Great awaits readers in Robert K. Massie's masterful biography. Born into a minor noble family, young Sophia transformed herself into Catherine, Empress of Russia, through sheer determination and political acumen. Her ascent to power is nothing short of extraordinary, marked by strategic marriages, cunning alliances, and an unwavering resolve that eventually led her to the throne. For thirty-four years, Catherine governed with a blend of enlightened ideas and ruthless pragmatism, steering the vast empire of Russia through tumultuous times.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eMassie delves deeply into Catherine's personal and political life, painting a comprehensive portrait of a woman who was both a despotic ruler and a progressive thinker. Her reign saw significant advancements in Russian cultural development, education, and arts, leaving an indelible mark on the country's history. She faced down domestic rebellions and led Russia through pivotal foreign wars, continually expanding her influence and territory, all while navigating the treacherous waters of the French Revolution's political upheavals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn \u003cem\u003eCatherine the Great\u003c\/em\u003e, Massie brings to life not only the empress herself but also the vibrant array of characters who surrounded her. The narrative springs to life with vivid descriptions of her family, friends, ministers, generals, lovers, and enemies, all of whom played critical roles in her story. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Massie captures the essence of an era and the complexities of a woman who was both feared and admired.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFew historical tales are as rich as that of Catherine the Great, and Massie's biography offers an unforgettable exploration of her life and legacy. For readers interested in the intricacies of Russian history, the dynamics of power, and the extraordinary life of a woman who changed the course of history, this book is an essential read.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45706160439532,"sku":"9781789544534","price":29.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781789544534.jpg?v=1725884331"},{"product_id":"invasion","title":"Invasion","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\nFor months, ominous signs pointed in one scarcely believable direction: Russia was about to invade Ukraine. Despite these warnings, the world was stunned by the epochal scale of the assault that began in February 2022. This was not just a skirmish; it was an audacious attempt by one nation to devour another. The Kremlin harboured ambitions far beyond territorial gains—it sought a new world order.\n\n\u003ci\u003eInvasion\u003c\/i\u003e is Luke Harding's gripping chronicle of the war that changed everything. Reporting on the ground through the initial months of shock and heartbreak, Harding unveils the unheard human stories behind the headlines, providing a vivid and urgent account of the devastation and resilience unfolding in Ukraine. \n\nThrough his journalistic prowess, Harding presents the stark contrasts between two very different leaders. Ukraine's actor-turned-president Volodymyr Zelenskiy rallied support on a global stage, his charisma and determination capturing the world's attention. In contrast, Vladimir Putin secluded himself, appearing to dwell in a strange and unreachable realm. Harding delves into the ideological, religious, and personal motives driving Putin's strategy for war and confronts a crucial question: what will be the endgame of this unprecedented invasion?\n\nWritten in Luke Harding's starkly transfixing style, this book offers an urgent, vivid, and powerful account of the largest armed conflict in Europe since 1945. Having previously warned about Putin's dark and adventurist ambitions, Harding's astute analysis of the war's consequences for Kyiv, Moscow, and the world makes for essential reading.\n\n\u003ci\u003eInvasion\u003c\/i\u003e not only captures the immediate human stories of bravery, despair, and a nation's will to survive but also provides a deeper understanding of the geopolitical shifts that have the potential to reshape our world. This is a chronicle of the war that serves as both a testament to devastating realities and a call for informed international response.\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45706464526572,"sku":"9781783352760","price":27.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781783352760.jpg?v=1725888478"},{"product_id":"october","title":"October","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003ci\u003eOctober\u003c\/i\u003e by China Miéville is a masterful narrative that breathes life into one of the most monumental moments in history—the Russian Revolution of 1917. Through the author's compelling prose, readers are transported back to a world of seismic change, where a sprawling empire was transformed through the fervour of revolutionary zeal.\n\nIn February of 1917, Russia languished under the yoke of an autocratic monarchy, enveloped in the turmoil of an unpopular and devastating war. By October of that same year, the country had experienced not just one, but two revolutions, culminating in the establishment of the world's first workers' state. How could such a swift and unimaginable transformation occur? This is the very question that Miéville seeks to explore.\n\nSpanning the vast distances from the political heartbeats of St Petersburg and Moscow to the most remote villages of the immense Russian landscape, Miéville delves into the intricacies of this historic upheaval. His narrative unveils the catastrophic events, intricate political manoeuvrings, and profound inspirations that defined 1917. Through a panoramic sweep, he captures the passion, drama, and strangeness of a society on the brink of revolution.\n\nWith a keen eye for detail and a talent for storytelling, Miéville intervenes in long-standing historical debates, offering fresh perspectives and insights. Yet, he presents the story with the novice reader in mind, making this complex period accessible and engaging. Readers will find themselves immersed in a breathtaking tale of humanity at its most desperate and resilient, witnessing a pivotal turning point for civilisation whose echoes still reverberate today.\n\nMiéville's meticulous research and dynamic narrative style combine to create an unforgettable exploration of a momentous event that reshaped the world. In \u003ci\u003eOctober\u003c\/i\u003e, the author doesn't just recount history; he brings it to life, making this book an essential read for anyone interested in the forces that have shaped our modern age.\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45706694197484,"sku":"9781784782788","price":22.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781784782788.jpg?v=1725890731"},{"product_id":"the-future-is-history","title":"The Future is History","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003ci\u003eThe Future is History\u003c\/i\u003e by Masha Gessen is a riveting exploration of modern Russia’s turbulent journey from the fall of the Soviet Union to its current iteration as a formidable, authoritarian state. Spanning several decades, the book meticulously chronicles the lives of four Russians, who were born during the collapse of the USSR, at a time brimming with hopes of democratic reform. \n\nEach of these individuals navigates their own unique path, imbued with dreams and aspirations. They are the children or grandchildren of those who helped shape the new Russia - entrepreneurs aiming to redefine their futures, activists striving for societal change, thinkers and writers wrestling with the nation's psyche, as well as individuals claiming their identities in terms of sexuality and social stature. \n\nGessen compellingly documents their intersecting journeys amidst the backdrop of a repressive regime that continuously seeks to throttle their voices through censorship, intimidation, and violence. This authoritarian grip, coupled with the state's relentless effort to suppress self-awareness and nostalgic reaffirmance of the infamous Soviet order, showcases the reinstatement of a monolithic power structure reminiscent of a mafia state.\n\nAs both a cultural and political narrative, \u003ci\u003eThe Future is History\u003c\/i\u003e skilfully intertwines personal stories with incisive political analysis. Gessen, celebrated for her fearless journalism, offers a piercing critique on contemporary Russia. Her narrative exposes the deep-seated corruption and the inexorable erosion of democratic principles, providing readers with a vivid and alarming vision of a society under siege.\n\nThis book is essential reading for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Russia’s sociopolitical landscape. It serves not just as a historical account, but also as a cautionary tale that underscores the fragile nature of freedom and democracy in the face of resurgent authoritarianism.\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45707113201900,"sku":"9781783784028","price":32.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9781783784028.jpg?v=1725895914"},{"product_id":"the-story-of-russia","title":"The Story of Russia","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eA 2022 BOOK OF THE YEAR FOR: \u003ci\u003eSunday Times \u003cem\u003e Irish Times \u003c\/em\u003e Spectator \u003cem\u003e Financial Times \u003c\/em\u003e Telegraph * Aspects of History\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e‘The history book you need if you want to understand modern Russia' \u003c\/b\u003e– ANNE APPLEBAUM\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e‘A magnificent, magisterial thousand-year history of Russia . . . by one of the masters of Russian scholarship' \u003c\/b\u003e– SIMON SEBAG MONTEFIORE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e‘A great historian at the peak of his powers' \u003c\/b\u003e– WILLIAM DALRYMPLE\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e'[An] excellent short study’ \u003c\/b\u003e– MAX HASTINGS, \u003ci\u003eSUNDAY TIMES\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e‘If you really want to understand Putin’s Russia today, anchored in its past of myths, then you simply have to read Figes’s superb account’ \u003c\/b\u003e– ANTONY BEEVOR\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e‘A lucid chronological journey that ably illustrates how narratives from the nation’s past have been used to shape its autocratic present’ \u003c\/i\u003e– \u003ci\u003eOBSERVER\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e'A valuable, instructive overview'\u003c\/b\u003e – \u003ci\u003eINDEPENDENT\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the great storyteller of Russia, a spellbinding account of the stories that have shaped the country’s past – and how they can inform its present.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eNo other country has been so divided over its own past as Russia. None has changed its story so often. How the Russians came to tell their story, and to reinvent it as they went along, is a vital aspect of their history, their culture, and beliefs. 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Through a blend of investigative journalism and personal narrative, Pomerantsev delves into the chaotic world of contemporary information warfare, taking readers on a journey through the virtual battlegrounds where truth and lies blur into indistinction.\n\n\u003cp\u003eIn this fascinating and often alarming book, Pomerantsev meets a diverse cast of characters, from Twitter revolutionaries and 'behavioural change' salesmen to Jihadi fan-boys and Identitarians. As he navigates the intricate landscape of influence operations, he uncovers the mechanisms behind dark ads, psy-ops, bots, and the resurgence of propaganda on a global scale. His journey also takes him to Russia, where he revisits the propaganda power structures reminiscent of those that once pursued his dissident parents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePomerantsev's narrative is a poignant reflection on how the world's most powerful figures deploy sophisticated methods to manipulate and control public perception. This compelling book offers readers an in-depth look at the strategies used to shape our beliefs and how these influence tactics have permeated democracies worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThis Is Not Propaganda\u003c\/i\u003e has received wide acclaim, including being named a \u003ci\u003eTimes\u003c\/i\u003e and \u003ci\u003eGuardian\u003c\/i\u003e Book of the Year. Critics have lauded it for its chilling and insightful exploration of the information wars that define our era:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eQuietly frightening.\u003c\/i\u003e - \u003ci\u003eGuardian\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eEssential reading.\u003c\/i\u003e - \u003ci\u003eIrish Times\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eConsistently chilling.\u003c\/i\u003e - \u003ci\u003eHerald\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eShocking and entertaining.\u003c\/i\u003e - \u003ci\u003eDaily Telegraph\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003ePraise for Peter Pomerantsev's work includes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe world's most powerful people are lying like never before, and no one understands the art of their lies like Peter Pomerantsev.\u003c\/i\u003e - Oliver Bullough\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThrough our current smog of smouldering bullshit, \u003ci\u003eThis Is Not Propaganda\u003c\/i\u003e shines a necessary, humane and dissident light.\u003c\/i\u003e - Nick Rankin\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eFar more than just another take on today's chaotic information wars, this book argues that we will have to understand how propaganda seeks to shape our deepest thoughts before we can confront it.\u003c\/i\u003e - Anne Applebaum\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eThis Is Not Propaganda\u003c\/i\u003e is essential reading for anyone seeking to understand the mechanisms of influence shaping our world today and the profound implications for our society and democracy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Allen \u0026 Unwin","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45707397464300,"sku":"9780571338641","price":27.99,"currency_code":"NZD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0705\/7784\/8556\/files\/9780571338641.jpg?v=1725899578"},{"product_id":"a-nasty-little-war","title":"A Nasty Little War","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"book-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eA Nasty Little War\u003c\/em\u003e by Anna Reid vividly brings to light the intricate and often overlooked episode of the West's intervention in the Russian Civil War. In the chaotic aftermath of the First World War, Britain, America, France, and Japan dispatched 180,000 soldiers to revolutionary Russia. Their audacious, yet ultimately futile, mission was to depose the Bolshevik forces and alter the course of history. What ensues is a tale filled with intrigue and danger, as soldiers traversed the crumbling expanse of the Russian Empire via sleds, trains, and paddle steamers. They bore witness to the harshest of conditions, making shelter in log cabins and felt yurts, while engaging in relentless warfare, torpedoing warships from speedboats and even becoming pioneers in the utilisation of air-dropped chemical weapons.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003eSupported by fervent advocates like Winston Churchill, these Western soldiers were embroiled in an operation described as a 'comic opera,' complete with numerous covert missions including orchestrated coups and a high-profile assassination. 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