"This is a unique memoir by a Jewish woman whose life was both unique and 'typical' for the first generation of 'modern Jewish women' in East-Central Europe and Russia. It is fascinating to observe the extent to which Anna absorbs and reflects the ethos of the Russian intelligentsia. Also of note is the fact that her Jewish identity does not appear to mean much to her, though her circle of friends appears to be mainly Jewish. Very often what she does not say is just as noteworthy as the specific biographical details. Anna's description of everyday life, dress, food, and attitudes between men and women in this key period will be of interest to a broad range of readers, both specialists and neophytes."
–Theodore R. Weeks, Professor of History, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
