What is the author's style in Khrushchev by William Taubman?

Khrushchev is told in straightforward American English in a popular tone, despite the academic purpose. The meaning is straightforward: To narrate an extraordinary life. Little attention is given to lyric description (the setting is too stark), but the story is by no means dull because the subject is so irrepressible and much of his character rubs off on the narrative, particularly when Khrushchev's earthy sayings are quoted.