Putin’s People is a book written by Catherine Belton that dives into how the KGB took back Russia and then went on to battle with the West. It provides an in-depth view of Vladimir Putin and those closest to him, portraying an intimate portrait of life inside the Kremlin. The reader will gain insight into Russia’s recent history and its current standing in global affairs.
For who is this book for ?
Putin’s People is a book written by Catherine Belton that dives into how the KGB took back Russia and then went on to battle with the West. It provides an in-depth view of Vladimir Putin and those closest to him, portraying an intimate portrait of life inside the Kremlin. The reader will gain insight into Russia’s recent history and its current standing in global affairs.
Pros :
- Belton provides an in-depth view of Vladimir Putin and his inner circle, shedding light on recent Russian history and its current place in the world.
- The book is well written and easy to read, providing an interesting perspective on a complex topic.
- It serves as a good starting point for those looking to learn more about Russia’s past and present.
Cons :
- The author lacks first-hand experience with Putin and his inner circle, instead relying largely on interviews with those who have left the Kremlin
- The book paints a rather one-sided view of Russian politics and current affairs, without providing much balance or critical perspective
- It is poorly organized and at times difficult to follow
Learn more about the author
Catherine Belton is an award-winning journalist who has spent two decades reporting on Russia and its politics. A former Moscow bureau chief for the Financial Times, she has also written for The New York Times, Time magazine, and Newsweek.
Reader Reviews
“Putin’s People is an excellent, well-researched book about the KGB and its takeover of Russia. Catherine Belton provides readers with a detailed look at Vladimir Putin and his inner circle, painting a fascinating picture of life in the Kremlin. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in Russian politics.”
“Belton has written a bracing and highly readable work of investigative journalism. Putin’s People is crammed with revelations about the inner workings of Russia’s security services under Putin and their efforts to control Russian politics, business, and society.”
“Belton has written a fascinating and essential book about the rise of Vladimir Putin and Russia’s resurgent power on the world stage. With unparalleled access to sources inside Russia’s intelligence services, she provides a gripping account of how Putin remade the KGB into an all-pervasive instrument of state control and used it to restore Russian dominance after years of humiliation following the collapse of the Soviet Union. This is indispensable reading for anyone who wants to understand modern Russia and its president.”
“Putin’s People is a comprehensive and insightful look at the inner workings of Vladimir Putin’s Russia. Catherine Belton has interviewed everyone from top Kremlin officials to ordinary citizens, giving readers a rare glimpse into life behind the iron curtain. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in Russian politics or global affairs.”
