This book gives an insight into Russia at two levels. The subject matter discusses the real struggles and issues of daily life and give insight into the reality of Russia today. The authors own approach gives insight into the Russian soul. 

"Twenty Articles address the politics, culture and literature of Russia. Passionate, opinionated , and wickedly clever, these essays use ample material from daily life to underline Tolstaya's ideas and observations. They move in one unique voice from Soviet Women, Classical Russian cooking, and the bliss of snow to the effect of Pushkin on Russian's writers".  - From the back cover.