Available and annotated for the first time in English, Aron Simanovitch’s memoirs offer an intimate view of Rasputin through the eyes of his dear friend and secretary. Simanovitch reveals Rasputin’s progressive ideas for social and economic reform that outraged the nobility. In the process, he paints a Peyton Place image of early twentieth century Petersburg society, with its gossip, plots and intrigue. But more importantly, his revelations about Rasputin’s humanitarianism lend a three-dimensional view to this controversial figure of Russian history.
Great perspective by Rasputin's Jewish secretary. Serves as a unique window to Rasputin's life and Jewish life at the time. The contributions by Rasputin was uplifting but Jewish fate and their circumstances, sad. It was written in an honest and minimalist way that was pleasant to read.
Lots of new details about Rasputin’s power with the Tsar, it was mind boggling, no wonder he was murdered. He has genuine concern for the less fortunate and minorities (the author is a Jewish friend of Rasputin’s. Very interesting for the history nerd.