John Reed 
Ten Days That Shook the World 

John Reed’s book ‘Ten Days That Shook the World’ is a gripping and detailed account of the October Revolution of 1917 in Russia. Reed’s journalistic style captures the intensity and chaos of the events, providing an insightful look into the dynamics of the Bolshevik uprising and its aftermath. The book is considered a classic of political journalism and offers a firsthand perspective of a pivotal moment in history. Reed’s vivid descriptions and engaging narrative make this book a compelling read for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in revolutionary movements. The author’s ability to blend personal observations with historical analysis adds depth to the narrative, offering readers a nuanced understanding of the revolution’s impact on Russian society and its global repercussions. With its rich detail and compelling storytelling, ‘Ten Days That Shook the World’ remains a must-read for those seeking to delve into the complexities of the Russian Revolution.

About the author

John Reed (1887-1920) was an American journalist, poet, and socialist activist whose work provided an intriguing blend of fervent political advocacy and detailed narrative. His magnum opus, ‘Ten Days That Shook the World’ (1919), remains an essential account of the October Revolution in Russia. Written with a journalist’s eye for detail and a revolutionary’s passion for change, Reed’s account offers a vivid portrayal of the events that led to the overthrow of the Provisional Government and the establishment of Bolshevik rule. Reed was not only an observer but also an active participant in the events he described, which lent his work an immediacy and authenticity that few others could capture. His narrative style, combining the rigidity of journalism with the flair of storytelling, has influenced generations of writers and historians. Reed’s commitment to the socialist cause eventually led him to become a founding member of the Communist Labor Party in the United States. Tragically, his life was cut short by typhus at the young age of 32 during a visit to Russia. Reed lies buried at the Kremlin Wall in Moscow, an honor reserved for revolutionary heroes. His work, however, continues to be read and studied as an important firsthand source on the revolutionary period and as a testament to the power of dedicated reporting and political conviction.