Life of a Russian Woman Doctor

<p><i>The Life of a Russian Woman Doctor</i> by Anna Bek (1869-1954) yields rich insights into the lives of a generation of Russian women who lived at a time of revolutionary change extraordinary challenges and unprecedented opportunities. Written in a lively and compelling style Anna Bek's memoir reveals not only the experiences but also the motives and values of women who sought education independence and self-sufficiency the obstacles they encountered and the influences of other women and men on their lives. This engrossing memoir also engages the special context of Siberian geography and history--the vast distances and isolation the heterogeneous population of settlers exiles and convicts the closeness and interdependence of families and communities and the deep appreciation of nature. This book offers a rewarding excursion into Siberian social history and an intimate acquaintance with two exceptional individuals of great charm and courage--Anna Bek and her American editor Anne D. Rassweiler.</p>