‘Russia is the motherland of elephants’ – this phrase from a Soviet-era anekdot (a peculiar genre of Russian jokes, often political, or obscene, or both) takes the mickey out of historical propaganda. The phrase is symbolic of the somewhat lighthearted approach to history, which is quintessential to this book. This is not an official history but a series of sketches, often humorous, on various aspects of Russian life over the centuries, of people, institutions, natural and political phenomena and local products of interest. The book also offers glimpses of Russia’s historical relations with the West, chequered, complex and fraught with chronic mutual misunderstanding.
You can buy the printed book here:
If it doesn’t matter to you where to buy, please choose Lulu, as I make more money in this case. This money is likely to be spent on Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc and Chinese green tea, which will fuel further literary endeavours for you to enjoy in the near future.
The e-book is available here:
MOE e-book on Lulu (preferred)
MOE Kindle edition on Amazon US
MOE Kindle Edition on Amazon UK
Apple iBook Store (sorry, no direct link)
The e-book lacks the essential maps and pictures, but they are available on this website.
PRAISE FOR THE MOTHERLAND OF ELEPHANTS:
‘This is the work of the Devil. The author should be boiled alive for blasphemy. Don’t forget bay leaf and peppercorns. Call me when dinner’s ready.’
Ivan the Terrible
‘Offers a startlingly original interpretation. However ignorant of Russian history you may think you are, you will be none the wiser after reading this. You might have a laugh though.’
Nikolay Karamzin
‘This is very general and incomprehensible… The Soviet people don’t need this. Ban it! All of it! Ban this outrage! And uproot its fans from the media.’
Nikita Khrushchev
‘Daddy has a good story to tell and he tells it well, I am told. My own opinion: fabulous book. Kept me comfortably asleep for many an evening.’
Pixie the Dachshund
Max Fram’s contact: motherlandofelephants@gmail.com
THE MOTHERLAND OF ELEPHANTS 