By delving into the life of Catherine the Great; this acclaimed biographer reveals the rich tapestry of Russia’s past; giving insight into the paradoxical character of its people and their stunning evolution from feudalism to communism to their present-day struggle for a free-market democracy.This is history as it is rarely written today—elegant; witty; dramatic; and with an intimate knowledge of its characters. And what better subject for a biography than one of history's most powerful women; the German-born Russian empress whose adopted language and culture were French; and whose most loyal correspondents were Voltaire and Diderot? Troyat details the various lives of Catherine II: the ambitious child; the acquiescent yet firm grand duchess; the forceful politician and patron of the arts; the belligerent war maker; and the doting grandparent. “A remarkable woman . . . A riveting book.â€â€”Mary Renault “Brilliantly captures one of the most colorful figures of all time.â€â€”Doubleday Book Club News
#1239618 in Books Michael Rosenberg 2009-09-08Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 7.98 x 1.05 x 5.30l; .73 #File Name: 0446698652384 pagesWar As They Knew It Woody Hayes Bo Schembechler and America in a Time of Unrest
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. If you are a fan of either school you will love this book.By Richard M AllenI thought it was very good; but you obviously have to be an Ohio State or Michigan fan; it doesn't matter which one. The book is very unbiased. I couldn't believe how thoroughly it was researched. It almost seems a shame to me that the author spent so much time and energy researching a book that appeals to such a limited audience.1 of 2 people found the following review helpful. and Michael Rosenberg crafts a brilliant narrative that details Hayes and his great discipleBy olingerstoriesThe title "War as They Knew It" is a take off of the title of the George Patton memoir; "War as I Knew It." Patton was Woody Hayes' military hero; and Michael Rosenberg crafts a brilliant narrative that details Hayes and his great disciple; Bo Schembechler; marshalling their football teams during the era of the Vietnam war. Regarding football; both demanded precision; toughness and execution. Their teams were mirror images of each other and they respected each other greatly. Regarding politics; they were quite different. Hayes was politically engaged and an active participant; Schembechler was politically indifferent and eager to stay on the sidelines.But; Rosenberg's genius is not limited to comparing and contrasting the coaches. He also contrasts the cities; Columbus and Ann Arbor; the players; and the school administrations. Rosenberg's admiration for innovative UM AD Don Canham makes him the third leading figure of the book.Also quite admirable is the way that Rosenberg paints the picture of Hayes. Much more complex than realized by the Eastern media; Hayes had a passion for Ralph Waldo Emerson; history; and education in general. Revealing is the exasperation of Hayes' assistants when he refused to call passing plays. Also revealing is the change of the players from being respectful and attentive in the late 60s to the "Old Man" to the non-respectful; irreverent; even drug taking players of the late 70s.For my money; the best book on Woody Hayes; and one of the best on Bo Schembechler.As a side note; for the negative votes that you see for the five star reviews; see John Bacon's THREE AND OUT. Many UM fans believed that Rosenberg and the Detroit Free Press unfairly targeted UM's voluntary practice hours that led to NCAA sanctions. Bacon makes Rosenberg out to be talented; but rather shallow and selfish.1 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Benjamin Charpia IIIExcellent book got here 3 days quicker than the predicted arrival time
