Limits of Policy Change Incrementalism, Worldview, and the Rule of Law Book

What an epic book! Starting from pre-history and progressing through about 2008, this sweeping history of Ukraine and Ukrainians is mind-boggling. While lengthy (about 700 pages), few words are wasted because the history of Ukraine is so complex and fascinating. Interwoven with the history of eastern Europe (Poland, Austria, Hungary, etc.) and Russia, Ukraine has endured upheaval, war, famine, and revolution in myriad ways most of the rest of the planet can only read about.

Subtelny's writing is mostly smooth, descriptive, and compelling, infrequently a bit repetitive. In a few of the later chapters, the verb tenses get a bit confused, probably due to the placement of the ending point of the earlier editions. Otherwise, it is simply brilliant if exhausting. Prepare to expand your understanding of not just Ukraine, but also eastern Europe and Russia.

Well worth reading, even 700 pages worth, this is one of those books that needs mulling over and deep thought to soak up so much dramatic history and dynamic human history. Pace yourself.