As part of the Greenwood Histories of the Modern Nations series (whose aim is to give concise, updated histories for the student or interested layperson), this volume provides a comprehensive overview of Ukraine's social, political and geographic history. The book begins with a helpful introduction covering topics such as climate, religion, economy and language. Chapters progress chronologically beginning with a brief discussion of the area's prehistory and covering the foundation of Ukrainian culture, the Polish-Lithuanian period, Ukraine under the Russian empire and Ukraine's independence. Particular attention is given to the period from the revolution and establishment of Soviet authority to Ukraine's present day, post-Soviet experience. Includes a time line of historical events, a section on notable people in the history of Ukraine and a bibliographical essay for those wishing to explore the subject further. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)