Putin's Fortune
Vladimir Putin’s grip on Russia’s wealth is examined in the fascinating graphic novel Putin’s Fortune.
In 1990, the book shows, Russia’s wealth became concentrated in the hands of a few men, made fewer through a number of suspicious poisonings and “suicides.” In this environment, Vladimir Putin began his rise to power. By rewarding his friends and destroying his enemies, he became the leader of Russia and amassed a huge fortune in the process.
The details of Putin’s finances were hidden for years, but in this book, his techniques for taking and holding power for a quarter century are laid bare. Putin is shown using blackmail, death threats, and bribery to create a mafia state, hiding wealth through loyal surrogates. The financial machinations that bled Russia of its national wealth are complex, but they are explained here with clarity, including shocking revelations of complicity among Western political leaders and institutions. Putin’s network of corruption is also rendered mysterious and intriguing, made up of people beholden to him for their wealth.
Colored in dark tones, the book instills a sense of claustrophobia and anxiety amid secret deals and constant danger. The art strikes an effective balance between realism and a streamlined cartoon style, resulting in recognizable faces and smooth storytelling.
Putin’s Fortune is a captivating graphic biography about the tactics that the leader of Russia used to become one of the richest men in the world.
Reviewed by
Peter Dabbene
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
