20–6220
The author of the present volume, special correspondent of the Manchester Guardian in Eastern Europe, went to Moscow to study the actual working of the government in Soviet Russia on the spot. Since this reputedly so “destructive” government had lasted two years he meant to discover its possible constructive side. Among his findings are: a strong government with strong and sincere men, capable administrators at its head; laws enforced with equality and justice; a marked orderliness instead of anarchy, and the peacefulness of the daily occupations and business of life astonishing. He found that “the Russian revolution is at bottom a moral, even a puritanical revolution, making for simplicity and purity of life and government” and that “no amount of pressure can fit the Russian people with a government framed and forged in the West.” Contents: Interview with Lenin; Interview with Tchitcherin; Bolshevism and industry; Bolshevism and the land; Bolshevism and labor; Trades’ unions in Soviet Russia; Bolshevik food control; Transport in Soviet Russia; Bolshevism and education; Bolshevik judicial system; Bolshevism and national hygiene; Bolshevik state control; School of soviet workers; A Bolshevik home of rest; Conclusions.
Ath p226 F 13 ’20 100w Booklist 16:329 Jl ’20
“His Russian version is at least consistent and coherent, though it leaves many things unanswered.” Harold Kellock
+ − Freeman 1:620 S 8 ’20 300w
“It is clear that the writer approaches the Bolsheviki with unfavorable preconceptions and, finding their character and their conduct unlike what he had been led to expect, allowed himself to be carried too far in appreciation. We miss the guarded reserve which is discernible in an avowed sympathizer like Mr Ransome.”
+ − Nation 111:109 Jl 24 ’20 360w
“As evidence of the real situation the book has little value. Mr Goode was clearly disposed before he went to admire all that the Bolsheviks had done or proposed to do.”
− Spec 124:216 F 14 ’20 120w