Masha Gessen

Masha Gessen, born in 1967 into an Ashkenazi Jewish family in Russia, is a distinguished American-Russian journalist, translator, and nonfiction author. Their early life was marked by significant upheaval; in 1981, they emigrated with their family to the United States, fleeing the pervasive anti-Semitism of their homeland. A decade later, Gessen returned to Moscow, immersing themselves in the world of journalism during a tumultuous period for Russia. Their work, which often delves into the intricacies of Russian politics and society, has been shaped by these formative experiences. Gessen's unique perspective as a non-binary individual using they/them pronouns further informs their exploration of identity and politics. Among Gessen's acclaimed works, "The Man Without a Face: The Unlikely Rise of Vladimir Putin" offers a penetrating examination of the political ascent of one of the world's most enigmatic leaders. Another significant contribution, "The Future Is History: How Totalitarianism Reclaimed Russia," garnered critical acclaim for its incisive analysis of Russia's socio-political landscape, winning the prestigious National Book Award. These books, lauded for their depth and insight, highlight Gessen's expertise in unraveling the complexities of authoritarian regimes and the socio-political dynamics of Russia. Gessen's writing style is characterized by its incisive clarity and profound analytical depth. Their work often traverses themes of totalitarianism, identity, and human rights, positioning them as a leading voice in contemporary political discourse. As a staff writer for The New Yorker, Gessen continues to illuminate pressing international issues, particularly those concerning Russia, LGBT rights, and gender. Their contributions to publications such as The New Republic and Slate further underscore their role as a pivotal commentator on global affairs and societal shifts.