Twelve Stories of Russia: A Novel I Guess

This is a really fantastic book. Funny, sad, suspenseful, erotic and most of all, so HUMAN. The above reviewers might make it seem like this was a really intellectual book, or a really deep book... and it is, but it's also a book that will connect with you no matter who you are, whether or not you understand Russia or travel, and whether or not you want a poignant, soul-striking read or an interesting, clever read. I especially loved the way the author made ME feel like life was better, different, harder, brighter, after I read this book. "Twelve Stories" is for everyone and it would be a shame to miss out on a "story" like this!

The author humorously and accurately portrays some of the personalities of modern Muscovites, both foreign and local. Many major categories are covered: the artist, the potential emigre, the emigre who has returned, the indebted businessman, the mafia thug, the hard-as-nails old woman who's survived so much, the heavy-drinking, English-teaching foreigner, and more. They're all a very odd bunch, but he somehow makes them believable, and likeable.Everyone will enjoy the novel, but a small amount of Russian--at least the alphabet--and some time in Moscow itself will be needed in order to more fully understand all of the inside jokes.Highly recommended. This foreign resident of Moscow will lend it enthusiastically to others in order to give them a better idea of what it's like here.

The brightest novel in the modern bilingual world. You can't just simply write such a book - easy, without suffering.Author survived a culture shock. He met irrational Russian mentality face to face during the worst time of the modern Russian history. And he was able to understand things, which not each Russian understands.I think this book is a masterpiece of the new culture, culture of multilingual people, citizens of the World - the powerful fusion of American, European and Asian cultures.Author was an eye-witness of dramatic changes - the downfall of empire and the birth of a new country. And he shares his thrilling experience not only as a spectator, but also, as a participant. Could you imagine modern Marco Polo or Gulliver or even Indiana Jones? That's it! And also - unique alloy of Anglo-American and Russian humor.It is easy to read but it is not easy reading. It is funny but it is not senseless. It has many layers and attentive reader could discover them without end.Definitely, Anthony Perry has a great gift. He can talk to readers with optimistic smile and love, even when he talks about sad things. (Oh, those incorrigible Americans, they always SMILE!) And he can see amazing grace of life even when the life itself is cruel and unfair. You can't just easy read this book. You gonna love it!