This collection of readings, edited by Ostrow (political science, Benedictine U.), brings together previously published work produced in the years after the collapse of the Soviet Union on the political economy of Russia in an effort to provide a core text for introductory courses in Russian politics. The 32 included readings are presented in sections discussing the Soviet political system, the dynamic and causes of Soviet collapse, the core issues facing post-Soviet Russia, capitalism and corruption in the economy, relationships between the executive and the legislature, political parties, elections, nationalism and the conflict in Chechnya, and the media. CQ Press is an imprint of SAGE Publications. Annotation ©2012 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)