Acclaimed Journalist Julia Ioffe Debuts 'Motherland'
Award-winning Russian-born American journalist Julia Ioffe has officially released her highly anticipated debut book, 'Motherland: A Feminist History of Modern Russia, from Revolution to Autocracy.' Published by Ecco, an imprint of HarperCollins, the book became available on October 21, 2025. This extensive work offers a unique perspective on Russian history, chronicling the nation's trajectory through the experiences and stories of its women.
Exploring Russia Through a Female Lens
'Motherland' delves into the complex narrative of modern Russia, beginning with the promises of emancipation during the Bolshevik Revolution and tracing the evolution of women's roles through various historical periods, including the Soviet era and up to the contemporary political landscape under Vladimir Putin. Ioffe's work combines elements of memoir, journalistic investigation, and historical analysis, providing an intimate yet comprehensive account. The book examines how the initial radical reforms aimed at liberating women ultimately faced challenges and how these developments shaped the country's destiny.
Key Figures and Themes
The book features a diverse array of women, from Ioffe's own physician great-grandmothers to prominent historical figures and contemporary activists. Notable individuals and groups discussed include:
- Feminist revolutionary Alexandra Kollontai
- Hundreds of thousands of Soviet women who fought in World War II
- Millions of single mothers who contributed to rebuilding the post-war U.S.S.R.
- Members of the protest group Pussy Riot
- Yulia Navalnaya, wife of opposition leader Alexei Navalny
Ioffe, who was born in Moscow and moved to the United States at the age of seven, draws on her personal background and extensive journalistic experience to illuminate the profound impact of these women on Russian society.
Critical Acclaim and Author's Background
'Motherland' has garnered significant critical attention since its release. It has been recognized as a finalist for the National Book Award and named one of the 10 Best Books of 2025 by The Washington Post, as well as one of the 100 Notable Books of 2025 by The New York Times. Julia Ioffe is a highly respected journalist whose work has appeared in numerous prestigious publications, including The New Yorker, The Atlantic, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Politico. She is also a founding partner and Washington correspondent for Puck. Her expertise in Russian-U.S. relations and her in-depth reporting from Russia, where she served as a correspondent for The New Yorker and Foreign Policy, inform her comprehensive analysis in 'Motherland.'
5 Comments
Leonardo
The inclusion of diverse figures like Kollontai and Navalnaya is a strength, offering varied perspectives. Yet, a comprehensive history of Russia needs to balance social narratives with geopolitical realities, which might be challenging in a feminist framework.
Africa
Ioffe left Russia young; can she truly represent the experiences of its women?
Habibi
Ioffe's personal connection adds a unique layer, making the narrative more engaging. Still, as an American-based journalist, her interpretation of Russian identity and women's struggles might differ significantly from those living in Russia today, which could be a point of contention.
Michelangelo
Can't wait to read this. So important to highlight women's roles in shaping history.
Comandante
Another book trying to rewrite history with a modern political agenda. Hard pass.