Tales from Russian History: The Work of Ivan Belyaev . Book 4, h. 1: History of Polotsk, or North-Western Russia, from ancient times" is a fascinating and informative work that immerses the reader in the world of ancient Russian history, revealing to him the wealth of cultural heritage and historical events related to the Polotsk and its environs. The author, Ivan Belyaev, masterfully combines facts and artistic style, creating vivid and memorable images that make the story alive and close. In this book, Belyaev explores the fate of Polotsk - one of the key cities of northwestern Russia, which played an important role in the formation of Russian statehood and culture. The reader will be able to learn about how life developed in this region, what historical events and personalities left their mark on his fate. Belyaev does not just retell the facts, he creates a whole gallery of characters that come to life on the pages of his book, causing interest and empathy. This book will be especially interesting for those who are fond of the history, culture and traditions of Russia. It is suitable for both adult readers and high school students who study the history of their country and want to better understand its roots. Fans of historical novels and documentary prose will find in the "History of the Polotsk" a lot of fascinating and informative, which will make reading not only interesting, but also useful. The themes raised in the book are diverse and multi-faceted. Belyaev touches on issues of statehood, cultural identity, interaction of different peoples and cultures, and also studies the influence of geographical location on the development of the region. It shows how Polotsk, being at the intersection of trade routes, became a center of cultural exchange and political intrigue. The reader will be able to see how the views on power, faith and social relations have changed in different historical epochs. Ivan Belyaev's style is distinguished by brightness and expressiveness. He skillfully uses metaphors and comparisons, which makes the text lively and dynamic. Reading his works, you can feel the atmosphere of time in which events unfold. Belyaev is also known for his other works that explore various aspects of Russian history and culture. His approach to writing historical works allows the reader not only to learn the facts, but also to feel the spirit of the time. “The Story of Polotsk” is not just a book about the past, it is an invitation to reflect on the present and the future. It makes us think about how history shapes our identity and how important it is to remember our roots. By reading this book, you will not only enrich your knowledge, but also enjoy a fascinating narrative that makes you think about the eternal questions of human existence. Thus, “Stories from Russian History” by Ivan Belyaev is a work worthy of attention of everyone who is interested in the history, culture and traditions of Russia. It will be a great addition to the library as fans of historical literature, and those who just want to learn more about their country and its rich heritage. Do not miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the amazing world of Polotsk and discover new horizons of Russian history!