“The Man without a Face, The Unlikely Rise of Vladimir Putin” by Masha Gessen, published by Riverhead Books.

Category – History/ Russian History

When Boris Yeltsin fell from popularity and started having health problems a search began for his successor. As unlikely a candidate as Vladimir Putin may have seemed, he has become entrenched in Soviet Politics.

Putin fought his way through Russian life and became a respected member of the KGB. Although never serving in a major role or station he was able to forge friendships that would be of use to him later on in life.

Putin, though uncouth, was able to obtain the Presidency of the Soviet Union and was able to manipulate his power and position to obtain not only unheard of status but unheard of wealth. This was gained through murder and exploitation of the Russian people.

Putin, so desired other peoples possessions that he asked New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft to look at his 124 diamond Super Bowl ring. Putin looked at it, put it in his pocket and left the room. Kraft not wanting to cause a scene, announced that the ring had been a gift to Putin.

This book is a very difficult read and should be read only by those who are genuinely interested in Vladimir Putin and Russian politics of this time. It is very difficult to follow and the casual student of Russian History will find only the last 100 pages of major interest.