I personally expected more analysis and in-depth approach about the current political and economic trends in Russia. There are some interesting aspects outlined - as, for instance, the author's opinions on Chechnya - but there are also too many pages dedicated to letters from supporters and other correspondence which does not bring too much knowledge. Probably because the author is such an important personality of the last century it does not matter too much, and if you have enough patience to go through the anecdotal aspects there are still interesting layers left. A must read though for anyone curious about Russian politics before and after Putin.

~This is a very important book~

Read it. I would partner reading this book with my favorite book of all time (insofar as it is the most societally relevant book I know): https://smile.amazon.com/Failure-Nerve-Leadership-Age-Quick/dp/159627042X. Note: an updated version of the latter is coming out in May of 2017.

The key takeaway for me is the importance of lowering systemic anxiety. Gorbachev was on the side of the angels, as much as one can expect a politician to be. He was overtaken by people who were sucked into anxiety about Russian society. Is the same thing happening right now in the United States and elsewhere in Europe (Germany, at the moment, being the exception)? Time will tell. The most important fight we have may be staying non-reactive, followed closely by cultivating concern for the greater and common good. Thank you for being a good representative of this approach and for many years of service to world peace, Mr. Gorbachev.