Sovietistan: Travels in Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan by Erika Fatland
Sovietistan: Travels in Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan by Erika Fatland takes readers on an immersive journey through the five Central Asian countries that once constituted the Soviet Union.
The goal: to understand the consequences of the Soviet legacy and the challenges faced by the inhabitants of these countries as they grapple with their complex histories.
From the grandeur of the Silk Road cities to the desolation of the Aral Sea, each destination offers a unique perspective, forcing Erika to reassess preconceived notions and grapple with the multifaceted realities of life in “Sovietistan.”
"Sovietistan" stands as a testament to Fatland's intrepid exploration of a region often overlooked in the Western consciousness. Through personal stories, historical insights, and geopolitical analysis, , readers gain access to the vibrant cultures, resilient people, and the geopolitical intricacies that define the post-Soviet landscape. The book's enduring impact lies in its ability to dismantle stereotypes and foster empathy. We need many more books like this!
“I don’t know why I worried that this might be a slow read. Erika doesn’t let the reader languish for a minute during this ambitious and deeply interesting journey. I love her writing style and am looking forward to reading The Border and her latest, High, soon!”
~ Marc