Intriguing in measures, needs Russian counterpoint

There are parts of this book that are quite interesting, namely the interactions with Russian artists, media executives and middle men (and women). Frankly, the book could have been even better with greater input from the Russian side of the negotiations and preparations, though how feasible that would have been is clearly problematic. What we're left with is the neuroses of the author navigating the gordian knot of post-Soviet Russian media bureaucracy. These parts are quite compelling, hearing the paranoia (probably well-founded) of Russian fears of American cultural imperialism. The author does her best to show her understanding of these concerns, while seeking to maintain the Sesame Street aesthetic. These are the best parts of the book.

Where it has trouble is when the focus is less on that rollercoaster process, and more on the author herself. A story not really in need of filler, it nevertheless goes off on tangents of the author lamenting her lack of a social life. It's clear where this subplot is going, and it does, I suppose, get paid off at the end, but most of the preliminaries of her personal life are little more than a distraction. There's not shortage of false modesty, either. Overly effusive praise of co-workers and partners becomes clear coding for self-aggrandizement. To be fair, that's reasonable, as this whole enterprise seems to have been a massively stressful undertaking. But it's when she takes such great pleasure in the contributions of talented women (a legitimately positive development, both for American and Russian cultures), yet at the same time admitting being intimidated by a female Russian partner, largely due to her designer shades and stiletto Christian Louboutin heels..., really? Her credibility takes a bit of a hit. But maybe that's just her own insecurities talking. I'm willing to take those distractions in stride, and put them aside, because what is good about this book, is really good. As such, though tempted to call it Pretty Good (3), I'll give it a 4.

Note to Audible: Is it common to accept a review from author themselves, albeit effusively praising the narrator (see above for speculation on the motive for that.)?

1 person found this helpful

Excellent story

Fascinating story! It should be required reading for all to show the human side of Russians and how we all hope the world will live in peace!

Pitch perfect narrator

Muppets In Moscow narrator emily lahey shoov is a natural - bringing to the story of making Sesame Street in Russia - voices that are distinct characters, compassionate and she dies so performing Russian accents that she is familiar with as she was born in Russia but also is a native English speaker. This is the best audiobook I have listened to in years!