Descripciones mejoradas de Syndetics:

A collection of articles debating issues related to the collapse of the former Soviet Union, the future of the region, and America's foreign policy there.

Reseñas proporcionadas por Syndetics

School Library Journal Review

Gr 8-12-Although the political and economic realities of the countries that once formed the Soviet Union change daily, making it difficult to keep up with what is happening there, this book wisely focuses on recent history rather than current events. It follows the pattern of other titles in the series by setting forth alternative explanations for an event and reflecting arguments via periodical articles, essays, or book excerpts. What caused the Soviet breakup? Reagan's hard-line policies? The inherent weaknesses of Communism? Gorbachev's ``reforms''? All three of these positions have been well represented in the media before, but this book also includes a fourth point of view-that Reagan's ``anti-nuclearism'' and his reliance on Star Wars defense rather than offensive nuclear weapons-created an atmosphere of trust and reciprocity that encouraged Gorbachev to make radical disarmament concessions, leading ultimately to a weakening of Communist hardliners. Other topics addressed are: the effect of the dissolution of the Soviet Union on the rest of the world; the response of the United States; and how Russia might minimize ethnic conflict. A solid introduction to complex issues with a list of organizations to contact and questions for further discussion.- Jack Forman, Mesa College Library, San Diego (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.

Booklist Review

Gr. 10-12. Another excellent volume in the Opposing Viewpoints series. The questions asked are important: Why did the Soviet Union collapse? How will the breakup affect the world? What would reduce ethnic conflict in the republics? Commentaries from legitimate experts are kept short and to the point and complemented by maps, charts, political cartoons, and inset text when necessary or appropriate. The series' familiar format is followed, with chapter prefaces setting up issues as well as questions to help focus readers and to serve as starting points for further discussion. Unfortunately, many of the magazines cited in the bibliographies of periodicals may not be readily accessible to all teens. The fact that the reading level may be above that of many young adults should not deter teachers and librarians from consideration of this thoughtful, intelligent presentation of an important and complex political event. It will be a valuable tool for helping students to understand the issues and for encouraging discussion in a history, political science, or current events curriculum. (Reviewed Mar. 1, 1994)1565100689Jeanne Triner