This morning I booked a solo July trip to Russia. I’ve long been fascinated by the country (the Hermitage! the Bolshoi!) and can’t wait to experience it first hand. I’ll be there for six days, splitting my time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, and want to visit all the best sites. In preparation for my Russian adventure I’m going to be doing a lot of reading. Below is a rather ambitious Russia reading list (the only one I’ve tackled thus far is Anna Karenina–so good!). Any additions you’d suggest…? Have you been to Russia? As always, I would love to hear your tips on what to see and do!
Catherine the Great: Portrait of a Woman
A Gentleman in Moscow: A Novel
Natasha’s Dance: A Cultural History of Russia
Nothing Is True and Everything Is Possible: The Surreal Heart of the New Russia
The Romanov Sisters: The Lost Lives of the Daughters of Nicholas and Alexandra
St. Petersburg: Architecture of the Tsars
The Girl from the Metropol Hotel: Growing Up in Communist Russia
Peter the Great: His Life and World
Mastering the Art of Soviet Cooking: A Memoir of Food and Longing
The Hermitage Museum: Treasures from the Complete Collections (the malachite!)
The Empress of Art: Catherine the Great and the Transformation of Russia
The Madonnas of Leningrad: A Novel
Bolshoi Confidential: Secrets of the Russian Ballet from the Rule of the Tsars to Today
Nicholas and Alexandra: The Classic Account of the Fall of the Romanov Dynasty
For a memoir of the gulag, read Journey into the Whirlwind by Eugenia Ginzburg
I haven’t read it myself, but everyone raves about The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov
Also, have a fantastic trip!
Angela – Thanks so much for these suggestions! Will check them out now…
Wow! That is a daunting list to finish before your trip but probably all worth while in one way or another. I would add Nadezhda Mandelstam’s memoirs to it.(especially Hope Against Hope) When I am in Russia,bits and pieces of it clearly echo….even after all this time. Sincerely wishing you a wonderful trip full of beauty and insight.
I think you’ll absolutely LOVE Bolshoi Confidential—Morrison is one of my favorite Russian music scholars!
Hi Katie, I went to Moscow for the first time ever in October. We stayed at the Ritz-Carlton which was super luxurious and very close to Red Square. We booked a private walking tour which even took us inside the Kremlin. The tour guide was great because in many of the museums the plaques are not in English so you wouldn’t be able to read them. Dinner at the White Rabbit was a highlight, so if you’re able to get a reservation, you must go!! It is the best view of Moscow. Hope this helps. Enjoy the trip!
I’m actually currently reading The Romanovs, and it is an extremely well-written book. It is extremely interesting and sometimes the details and writing is so good that you forget you’re reading a non-fiction book! I definitely recommend reading it.
Great list! The only one I’ve read is Gentleman in Moscow which I highly recommend. It takes place in The Metropol Hotel so I was intrigued to see The Girl From The Metropol Hotel on your list.
Enjoy your trip!
I spent 10 days in Russia a year ago (5 days in Moscow and 5 days in St Petersburg) and it was absolutely my favorite trip I’ve ever taken. My boyfriend and I had it on our bucket list for the history and art, and the trip exceeded every expectation. We stayed in airbnbs, did a ton of museums, and had some incredible meals (we still dream of the pelmeni!) I have tons and tons of recs and tips if you want them! So excited for you! xx
Hello!
I am from Russia, just found your post, while doing some research for my University essay. It ‘s very interesting to read this – a lot of books we’ve hardly know here.
Yes, I recommend The Master and Margarita by Mikhail Bulgakov and if you like short novels you can choose Anton Chekhov or Ivan Bunin short stories – you find there native russian spirit.
Wish you enjoy this trip, hope you won’t be disappointed!
I am excited for my trip to Russia in July. I will follow your lead on what books to read, what are the 5 best?
Many thanks!!!
Geri
PS Any restaurants for lunch in Moscow and St Petersburg?
Planning a trip to include Moscow and St Petersburg in May of 2019. Looking for inspiration!
I visited Moscow end of May beginning of June for 7 days. Managed to see Bon Jovi while I was there. I think 6 days and squeezing in Saint Petersburg is very short. I didn’t have enough time to see all I wanted. The metro is incredible… I personally could have spent a couple of days exploring the art and it’s history.
Gorky Park is beautiful! There is a quaint tea shop next to the river with a large tea warm outside. That was the best tea I’ve tasted.
I’m reading since visiting and planning to return for three weeks in summer. My son teaches in Moscow and I was fortunate enough to have is friend as a tour guide.
Have an amazing time!!! I’m envious. I’d go back sooner if I could. Thanks for all your reading suggestions. Enough to keep me busy!!
Going on the Trans Siberian July 2021, St Petersburg to Beijing, grateful for your list…