In this first-hand report from Eastern Europe, Polish-born Hoffman describes changes during the years immediately following the collapse of the Soviet Union in Poland, the Czech Republic, Hungary, Romania and Bulgaria. A great example of wonderful travel writing, the book goes beyond the sights and sounds to plumb the mindset of politicians, literati and everyday folk during this critical time. The Wall Street Journal called the book "refreshingly unpretentious," and we couldn't agree more.  (EUR10, $14.95)