Americans in Bear Country

Rating:
Summary: Thoroughly enjoyed
Review: I am thoroughly impressed with the author's ability to show us a detailed picture of everyday life in the Russian hinterlands. I never imagined people could still live that way in this day and age. We (Americans) are very much spoiled by what we consider "our necessities" in life. The emotions and visuals this book brought to me were so clear and real. I thought the last chapter written by the author's husband was a very nice touch. We have the story from both sides of this very adventurous couple! I was a little nervous about having to read about the Russian government/politial issues in this book, but was quite surprised and pleased to see it wasn't like any other book I've read about Russia. It is about the daily life of the everyday common person (or Americanski)in Pavlovo, Russia. Thank you for sharing your story, Missy Moore!

Rating:
Summary: Americans in Bear Country
Review: I would probably never read an abstract discussion of the Russian economy, but this first-person story held my attention all the way through. The fascinating picture it paints of the hardships under which most Russians live was an eye-opener and will stay with me a long time. As will the courage of the writer who faced all challenges with good humor and good sense.

Rating:
Summary: A must read, from one who has lived 7 yrs outside the USA
Review: This is an invaluable book for those who complain about living in the USA, those interested in human nature, Russian travel or culture, or book lovers in general.

The most insightful comments about human nature: property that is owned by everyone is not kept up by anyone and its corollary, property that is owned by everyone is free for the taking by anyone. Her examples are poignant, especially her attempt to set an example.

Missy's love and concern for the ordinary people of the Russian hinterland overcame the deprivations and primitive conditions where they lived for 15 months. The isolation was intense, but expressed only in the context of overcoming it. The Russians responded to Missy with warmth that was in stark contrast to the very cold climate.

Not only did I greatly enjoy the book, but since I was away when it arrived, I had to wait for my husband and a friend (who is going to Russia) to finish the book first. Our friend immediately bought a copy for his wife.

Rating:
Summary: A must read, from one who has lived 7 yrs outside the USA
Review: This is an invaluable book for those who complain about living in the USA, those interested in human nature, Russian travel or culture, or book lovers in general.

The most insightful comments were about human nature: property that is owned by everyone is not kept up by anyone and its corollary, property that is owned by everyone is free for the taking by anyone. Her examples are poignant, especially her attempt to set an example of personal responsibility.

Missy's love and concern for the ordinary people of the Russian hinterland overcame the deprivations and primitive conditions where they lived for 15 months. The isolation was intense, but expressed only in the context of overcoming it. The Russians responded to Missy with glowing warmth that was in stark contrast to the very cold climate.

Not only did I greatly enjoy the book, but since I was away when it arrived, I had to wait for my husband and a friend (who is going to Russia) to finish the book first. Our friend immediately bought a copy for his wife.

Rating:
Summary: Thoroughly enjoyed
Review: What a wonderful narrative of a present day adventure! Students often need material on Russia but are put off by lengthy books that are heavy on history and very short on interesting daily life. This book is perfect. It is like listening to a favorite relative tell about the trials of the depression and how it influenced all that came after.....

Rating:
Summary: High School Librarian sees value in primary sources.
Review: What a wonderful narrative of a present day adventure! Students often need material on Russia but are put off by lengthy books that are heavy on history and very short on interesting daily life. This book is perfect. It is like listening to a favorite relative tell about the trials of the depression and how it influenced all that came after.....