July 01, 2006 The Babushka Factor Every foreigner knows the word "babushka" before they even start studying Russian. But it takes some study (or this column) to plumb the depths of meaning hidden in this word.
July 01, 2006 Ivan Kruzenshtern Russia's first (actually, technically its second) circumnavigator was an fearless explorer who often put up with some difficult diplomats, like Nikolai Rezanov.
July 01, 2006 The Celebration of Summer Ivan Kupala is the annual celebration of Summer Solstice. It has deep roots in Russia's pagan past, and is making a comeback.
July 01, 2006 The First Public Library The founding of the first public library on the campus of Moscow State University was a momentus event for lovers of books and knowledge. The library's history echoes that of the nation.
July 01, 2006 Village Injustice This modern tale of two hapless village drunks and their run-in with the Russian justice system could be taken out of Chekhov. But, sadly, it is non-fiction.
July 01, 2006 The Stuff of Folk Songs Ryabina is the stuff of Russian song and folklore. Here, it is the focus for this issue's snowball berry red recipe...
July 01, 2006 Writers at War, Putin and a River Adventure A review of Ivan's War, A Writer at War, Putin's Russia, and River of No Reprieve. Follow this link for a quick link to purchase any of these titles.
July 01, 2006 A History of the Ruble in Three Acts As we note in our Notebook lead this issue, the Russian government is on a fast track to making the ruble fully convertible. For our PostScript, we review the history of the ruble's decline and fall, with attractive graphs!
