[xp38]

I agree about the Gulag Archipelago but it is not light reading. I read in the 70s when it was released and knew then I was reading one of the masterworks of the 20th century. Very heavy slogging for my young mind but very worthwhile. I don't think I would call it my all time favorite book. It was like reading of the Bizarro planet. The clapping incident impressed me a great deal.

[PJ-Comix]

The clapping incident impressed me a great deal.

Just be sure you're NOT the first one to stop clapping!

[fnord]

I still remember parts of it. There was tremendous detail of names and places, that I glossed over (like the Bible begats ...). But many interesting stories. The realism and detail was extraordinary.

I recall the clapping incident too, and speak of it to friends occasionally to try to make an impression of the insidiousness of the Soviet regime. Hardly anyone can believe it might be real.