The Politics of Fantasy

Red Plenty

Francis Spufford

A unique blend of history and fiction exploring the Soviet Union's attempt to create a planned economy through cybernetics. Like 'Politics of Fantasy', it examines how cultural and technological imports shaped Russian society. The book weaves together multiple perspectives to show how Western ideas were adapted and transformed within the Soviet context.

The Future Is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia

Masha Gessen

Follows several generations of Russians as they experience the transition from Soviet to post-Soviet society. Examines how cultural and political changes affected individual lives. Like 'Politics of Fantasy', it explores the tension between Western influences and Russian nationalism.

From Russia with Love: Russian Popular Culture in the Post-Soviet Era

David MacFadyen

An analysis of how Western pop culture influenced post-Soviet Russian entertainment and media. Examines the transformation of Russian cultural identity through imported media forms. Similar to Borenstein's work, it explores the tension between globalization and national identity in Russia's cultural sphere.

Russian Popular Culture: Entertainment and Society Since 1900

Richard Stites

A comprehensive examination of how Russian popular culture evolved through the 20th century. Shows how entertainment reflected and shaped social changes. Like Borenstein's work, it explores the interaction between foreign influences and Russian cultural traditions.

The Cultural Front: Power and Culture in Revolutionary Russia

Sheila Fitzpatrick

Chronicles how culture became a battleground in post-revolutionary Russia as the state sought to control artistic expression. Particularly relevant to understanding the historical context of Russia's cultural politics. Shows how foreign influences were filtered through ideological lenses, much like the Harry Potter phenomenon.

Soviet and Post-Soviet Identities

Mark Bassin

Analyzes how Russian identity has evolved through cultural and political changes since the Soviet era. Particularly relevant to understanding reactions to Western cultural products. Examines the complex relationship between Russian nationalism and global influences.

How Russia Learned to Write

Jeffrey Brooks

Explores the development of popular literature and literacy in Russia from the late imperial period through the Soviet era. Shows how literature shaped national identity and political consciousness. Provides essential context for understanding modern Russian reactions to Western literary imports.

Not by Bread Alone: Social Support in the New Russia

Melissa L. Caldwell

Explores how Russians adapted to post-Soviet social and cultural changes through everyday practices. Examines the intersection of Western influences and Russian traditions in daily life. Provides insight into how ordinary Russians navigate cultural transformation, complementing Borenstein's analysis of pop culture reception.

Mass Culture in Soviet Russia

James von Geldern

Examines how popular culture developed in Soviet Russia and shaped social consciousness. Particularly relevant to understanding the historical context of cultural adaptation. Shows how foreign influences were integrated into Soviet mass culture.

The Imperial Sublime

Harsha Ram

Analyzes how Russian literature and culture have historically dealt with questions of empire and national identity. Explores the relationship between cultural expression and political power. Provides insight into modern Russian cultural politics and resistance to Western influence.