Most people outside Russia perceive it as a Slavic, Christian nation. That is a wrong way of looking at it. Russia is a symbiosis of Slavic/Christian and Turkic/Muslim elements. David L. Ransel's fascinating book reflects this dual nature of Russia and gives an insight into its complex inner soul. A wealth of details and astute observations make this book a pleasure to read.Most recent books about Russia concentrate on its urban aspects or on its general political or economic aspects. Unlike them, Village Mothers presents a picture of its rural life. Russia has been a largely rural, agricultural country for many centuries. Its industrialization started only a few decade ago. That's why it is important to understand the village life in Russia. David Ransel's book helps to do just that.