Lost and Found in Russia

Far from Moscow and St Petersburg, there lies another Russia. Overlooked by the new urban elites and almost unknown to the West, in the great provincial hinterlands of the Volga River and Siberia, Russians struggle to reconcile their old traditions with a new and unfamiliar world. Returning again and again, for over a decade, to the deep heartland of this rapidly-evolving country, Susan Richards has encountered extraordinary people and forged lasting friendships. Through their unforgettable stories and her own experiences she reveals how in Russia the past and the present cannot be separated. Illuminating a forgotten people and sweeping away traditional assumptions, Lost and Found in Russia is a compelling and essential portrait - poignant, yet full of hope for a new future. 'A work of great thoughtfulness and enterprise.' - Colin Thubron'A uniquely personal chronicle, and a testament to friendship.' - Victoria Glendinning'Susan Richards has long been one of the very best writers on Russia a brilliant, poignant evocation of a society in transition.' - Robert Service'Once again, Susan Richards gives a rare and wonderful evocation of ordinary lives in Russia.' - Philip Marsden'intense reading...bursting with good material...' - Thomas de Waal, Sunday Times'wonderful... as rich and compelling as a novel.' - Lesley Chamberlain, Independent'fascinating... if there is one thing you learn from this book, it is that we must all live beyond the rational.' - Angus MacQueen, Guardian'moving, sometimes perplexing, even distressing... as admirable as it is honest.' - Donald Rayfield, Literary Review