Blog
The Collective Reader: Tracing the Evolution of Book Clubs Through Time
Book clubs began as spaces for women’s education and debate, evolving from 17th-century Bible study groups to 18th-century reading circles and 19th-century forums for women’s rights. The 20th century saw mass participation with the Book-of-the-Month Club and Oprah’s Book Club, blending social connection and intellectual growth, while expanding access to literature and fostering diverse reading communities.
Go On Pretending: From Stalin’s Doctors Plot to Soviet Central Television
Alina Adams post explores the creation of Dennis Kagan, a fictional Soviet media elite in the novel “Go On Pretending,” inspired by real-life Soviet propagandist Vladimir Pozner. Through Kagan’s story—shaped by personal trauma from Stalin’s Doctors Plot and cynical opportunism—the post examines Soviet media manipulation, propaganda, and shifting allegiances. Ultimately, Kagan’s character highlights how survival and self-interest often outweighed ideology in the USSR’s media landscape.
Go On Pretending: African-Americans and the USSR
Alina Adams explores the complex relationship between African-Americans and the USSR, focusing on Paul Robeson’s admiration for Stalin and the Soviet Union’s supposed racial equality. Through her novel’s characters, Adams highlights how some African-Americans, like Robeson, overlooked Soviet atrocities in hopes of a better life, only to confront harsh realities. The story questions the cost of “going on pretending” about utopian ideals.
Boots on the Ground: Researching Historical Fiction IRL
In "Boots on the Ground: Researching Historical Fiction IRL," Valerie Nieman shares her immersive journey through Scotland to authentically capture the setting for her novel, "Upon the Corner of the Moon." By hiking the Highlands and engaging with locals, she enriched her storytelling with vivid details and historical insights, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of firsthand experience in writing historical fiction.
The Rise and Fall of the USSR
Grace E. Turton's article explores the rise and fall of the USSR, highlighting Joseph Stalin's pivotal role. Stalin's leadership was marked by power struggles, brutal policies, and the implementation of Five-Year Plans. His reign led to significant events like the Great Terror, World War II, and the Cold War. Ultimately, Mikhail Gorbachev's reforms and the USSR's economic struggles contributed to its dissolution in 1991.
The Origins of the USSR
Grace E. Turton's article "The Origins of the USSR" explores the formation of the USSR, highlighting key figures like Lenin and Trotsky, who built on Marx and Engels' ideas. The article traces the downfall of Tsarist Russia, catalyzed by military defeats and social unrest, leading to the 1917 revolutions. Lenin's Bolsheviks eventually seized power, establishing a communist regime. The Russian Civil War solidified Bolshevik control, culminating in the creation of the USSR, setting the stage for Stalin's rise.
Harrison Hurst on Ibrahim ibn Yaqub and his award-winning story “The Dog Star"
This interview with Harrison Hurst explores Ibrahim ibn Yaqub, a 10th-century Sephardic Jewish explorer, and his influence on Hurst’s story "The Dog Star." The narrative follows Yaqub's trade endeavors in Hedeby, blending historical accounts with fiction. Hurst emphasizes authenticity and historical accuracy in storytelling. As a historian and writer, he aims to create meaningful art.