"Russia is a land of swamps, bogs and eventually rich farm land.477.477.a kind of cold Louisianna, with bears instead of alligators." Robert Haupt, a former editor and foreign correspondent was considered by many to be the best writer in Australian journalism. In 1990 he was sent to Russia to become the correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age. He fell in love with Russia and the Russian people. A 1995 journey which Haupt made down the Volga River to its source forms the core of the book. It was a journey taken as he tried to find a way to convey what was changing and what was stable about Russia at that tumultuous time. This book is also an expression of the love he felt for Russia and its people. ".477.the coup, the collapse of the Soviet Union, the suppression of parliament, the communist revival, all coming past like unleashed luggage on a storm-tossed ferry ." Robert Haupt died a young man on the day he delivered this book to his New York publisher. It is an extraordinary book and by anyone's standards an extremely accomplished and engaging piece of writing. SALES POINTS: * The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age are right behind this book. Robert was one of theirs and his book will be very well supported. * Launch in Sydney with Robert's media colleagues gathering as a tribute. Lots of media coverage. Will be the first launch ever where the three editors of The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and The Financial Review all speak * Prominent media friends of Robert's all prepared to speak on behalf of book (details being worked out). Some of those who have agreed to speak to media are jennifer Byrne, Max Walsh, Peter Smark, John Lombard and some who have been approached are Brian Johns, John Button, Gough Whitlam, Gareth Evans, and Mike Carlton * Brilliant piece of writing which will undoubtedly have excellent word of mouth coverage.