Dimitri and the false Tsars

by Hans Baumann, Anthea Bell (translator)

A biography of the supposed son of Ivan the Terrible whose reign in the 17th century was brief but impressive.

188 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1972

Reviews

[Doodles McC · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a young child I liked this introductory story of Russian Tsars and the lives they controlled from about 1580 to 1608, when Russia had five tsars. Ivan the Terrible, his son Fyoder who let Boris Godunov run things and murderous Boris Godunov. The next tsar Dimitri was supposed to be Ivan's youngest son. He tried to rule with compassion and consideration much to the chagrin of the Russian nobility and churchmen.

[Mimi · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'd consider this YA/middle grade Historical Fiction, one that I would have loved when I was that age and didn't find bad now.

[Karen GoatKeeper · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although written for the younger audience, this is a very interesting introduction to some Russian history of about 1580 to 1608.
Over a period of 25 years Russia had five tsars. Ivan the Terrible, his son Fyoder who let Boris Godunov run things and Boris Godunov (He was a real person.) all had the attitude that a tsar had to rule by terror killing any and all who did or might object to their ideas. The next tsar Dimitri was supposed to be Ivan's youngest son. He tried to rule with compassion and consideration.
Unfortunately Russian nobility and churchmen were very traditional and conservative. They were terrified of the changes Dimitri was making.
The book is very readable. It includes reference to many of the terrible things done by the tsars, the intrigues, the origin of the Cossacks and the debate over the validity of Dimitri. Yet the references are not deeply detailed for those not wanting to go into a Russian history study. It does help explain why Russia today has the traditions and attitudes it does.
It is an easy read but very informative.