Russian and Soviet Economic Performance and Structure (7th Edition)

Rating:
Summary: Decent analysis, but bad editing
Review: To start off, the editors of this book must have been asleep when it crossed their desks: the numerous erros in spelling and grammar interrupt a generally lucid writing style, with numerous, critical errors even in charts and graphs. The worst editorial aspect of the book is that in several places, entire passages are repeated, sometimes immediately, other times in a different chapter. Being in the field, I know economists are not the most skilled writers, but I place all the blame at the doorstep of the publishing house.

That said, the book is fairly good at getting its point across. While the authors' stance on capitalism-vs-communism is clear, they generally present the facts in a clear manner, and they are evenhanded in their treatment of the opposing theories.

A servicable, if cursory, introduction to Soviet and transitional Russian policy. That said, though, I strongly suggest that you buy it used if at all possible. It's really not worth the $$$$ Amazon wants for it.