Robert Alexander is the author of bestselling novels, drawing on his extensive experience traveling in Russia. His work often explores historical themes, offering readers a compelling glimpse into the past through his narrative skill. He has dedicated over three decades to immersing himself in Russian culture and history, informing the rich tapestry of his fiction. Alexander's novels are known for their engaging storytelling and insightful portrayals.
Set against the backdrop of a pivotal Civil War battle, this book offers a deep exploration of Five Forks, a location that symbolizes the South's ultimate defeat. Through vivid descriptions and insightful analysis, it examines the social, political, and military implications of the conflict, revealing how this moment shaped the future of the South. The narrative captures the complexity of the era and the fateful decisions that led to the South's downfall, providing a compelling account of a significant historical event.
When she was just two years old, Laura Bridgman lost her sight, her hearing, and most of her senses of smell and taste. At the time, no one believed a child with such severe disabilities could be taught to communicate, much less lead a full and productive life. But then a progressive doctor, who had just opened the country’s first school for the blind in Boston, took her in. Laura learned to communicate, read, and write—and eventually even to teach. By the age of 12, she was world famous.Audiences flocked to see her, and she was loved and admired by children everywhere. This fascinating and moving biography shows how Laura Bridgman paved the way for future generations of children with disabilities, making possible important advances in the way they would be educated. As a blind person with some hearing loss, Sally Hobart Alexander lends a unique and intimate perspective to this inspiring account. At last, the story of Laura Bridgman can find its long-deserved place alongside those of Louis Braille and Helen Keller.
As the Russia of Nicholas and Aleksandra rushes full speed toward catastrophe, The Romanov Bride follows the lives of two revolutionary souls, that of Grand Duchess Elisavyeta (or Ella), sister of the tsaritsa Aleksandra, and that of Pavel, a simple village man yearning for more.The life of Grand Duchess Elisavyeta begins like a fairy tale - born a princess of Germany, she marries the Grand Duke Sergei of Russia and enters the most lavish and magnificent court in the world, that of the mighty Romanovs, where she is renowned for her sumptuous fashion, jewels, and beauty, not to mention her kind heart. Her husband, however, possesses no such grace, and he rules Moscow as he does his wife, with a cold, hard fist.For Pavel and his bride, though, living in Sankt Peterburg means sharing a crowded cellar with other families, and being barely able to afford bread. Nevertheless, they are full of optimism, for their grandparents were serfs and this young couple is the first to leave the countryside to seek a better existence.However, after an explosive confrontation between peaceful demonstrators and tsarist soldiers, the lives of Ella and Pavel take two very different turns, but the fire of revolutionary Russia eventually links their fates forever.Robert Alexander once again masterfully combines the power of true history and riveting storytelling to bring this fascinating and legendary period to life.
Focusing on the political dynamics during the Bourbon Restoration and early July Monarchy, the book explores how grassroots organization and persuasion facilitated change, rather than traditional methods of conspiracy and violence. It highlights the connection between common citizens and the political elite, emphasizing the conflict between advocates of national and royal sovereignty. The author examines the interactions among various political factions, illustrating how the Liberals, despite their initial success, ultimately contributed to the instability of the Orleanist regime while laying the groundwork for future reform.
Focusing on the evolution of organized labor in Peru and Ecuador, this volume spans from the late nineteenth century to the end of the twentieth century. It examines the interplay between trade unionism, economic development, and political dynamics, highlighting various political trends within labor organizations. Additionally, the book addresses the detrimental effects of free enterprise and free trade policies on the labor movement during the latter part of the twentieth century.
Set against the backdrop of Bolivia's significant social revolution in the twentieth century, the narrative explores the rise of organized labor during the 1920s amid political turmoil and government crackdowns. The labor movement, despite setbacks from the Chaco War, gained traction through support from political parties, notably the Movimiento Nacionalista Revolucionario. The author, Alexander, examines the labor unions' achievements and challenges, weaving their story into the broader context of Bolivia's dynamic political history.
Focusing on the historical trajectory of organized labor in Uruguay and Paraguay, the book explores its influence on the economics and politics of both nations. It highlights the author's extensive personal experiences with labor movements over nearly fifty years, revealing unique insights. Despite the stark political differences between the two countries, the text identifies significant similarities in their labor histories, offering a comparative perspective that enriches the understanding of the regional labor movement.
Focusing on the history of organized labor in the English-speaking West Indies, this volume explores the origins, early struggles, and experiences with collective bargaining in these countries. It highlights labor's significant role in political movements, particularly in the fight for self-government and independence. Additionally, the book examines the international trade union organizations within the West Indies and their connections to broader hemispheric and global labor movements, providing a comprehensive view of labor's evolution in the region.
Drawing from decades of work, travel, and research in Russia, Robert Alexander re-creates the tragic, perennially fascinating story of the final days of Nicholas and Alexandra as seen through the eyes of the Romanovs' young kitchen boy, Leonka. Now an ancient Russian immigrant, Leonka claims to be the last living witness to the Romanovs' brutal murders and sets down the dark secrets of his past with the imperial family. Does he hold the key to the many questions surrounding the family's murder? Historically vivid and compelling, The Kitchen Boy is also a touching portrait of a loving family that was in many ways similar, yet so different, from any other.
