Century of Ambivalence, A

By Gitelman, Zvi
Indiana University Press, 2001, Paperback, 297 pp., ISBN: 0253214181, $24.95

Through a remarkable collection of photographs from the YIVO Institute and private sources, this book traces the uncertain relationship of the Jews of Russia and the Soviet Union with their state and society.

It shows how Jews have remained torn between a love for the land of their birth and loyalty to their own heritage, while contending with both the prejudices of the majority population and the continually shifting policies of the government, tsarist and communist.

Well written, well documented, and unique as a pictorial record, this is appropriate for general collections and an important addition to those devoted to Jewish history and life. Quality Paperback and History Book Club selections. From Library Journal