Never read the Gulag Archepelago. I did read “The Forsaken” by Tim Tzouliadis, about American emmigrants in Soviet Russia during this era, their subsequent abuse, and the utter indifference of the Roosevelt administration and the American left to their plight. Fascinating stuff. I think he cites the GA as a source for some of his research.
‘The Forsaken’ is a gripping book and left me angry and sad. More angry, I suppose. I just can’t believe these Americans were left to starve and die in the Gulag.
You must read the GA, really.
Perhaps instead try “A Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich.” It will give you the flavor of The Gulag Archipelago after reading around 100 pages versuses the 1,000+ pages of the three volume Gulag Archipelago.