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An interesting glimpse into life in Russia. I didn't give it 4 stars only because it's an anecdotal journal that doesn't go into much depth.

Pervasive vulgarity seems beneath a writer of this caliber, and the characters won't exactly inspire your faith in humanity, but a pretty good vacation read. You'll fly through it.

I gave up about 120 pages in. A somewhat interesting, chronological summary of the early origins of the city gives way to a more anecdotal style that loses focus, though the author's interest comes through. Someone more familiar with the streets and neighbourhoods of London might enjoy the book more.

Accessible, entertaining, and fascinating. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

This book will alienate its share of readers by alternating between prose-driven and plot-driven style, not to mention going off on metaphysical tangents and having an infatuation with lists, but I appreciate that it at least tries to be different.

I saw the PBS miniseries decades ago and was curious to finally read this. It's well-written but relies heavily on the premise, to the detriment of the plot. Overall, the story is an interesting metaphor.

Entertainingly written, full of interesting details, and an excellent introduction to the history of the region.

Almost more a case study than a novel, and at times it feels like the story loses some things in translation, but a quick read.

Unoriginal and predictable, but a page-turner nevertheless!

Made it about 90% through and finally gave up. The endless non-sequitors, misplaced modifiers, and jumping around in both time and location make this book practically opaque. It's a shame... there's a good story buried in there.