This collection of essays examines the history of Russia from its medieval beginnings as the kingdom of Kievan Rus' to the collapse of the USSR and the current state of this complex nation. Stein edits this work chronologically, arranging essays from sources as diverse as History Today, National Geographic and Fortune magazine into a coherent whole ending with such current events as Russia's relations with China, and recent subway bombings. The text is peppered with photographs and tables, and includes a complete bibliography and subject index. Annotation ©2010 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)