"For many Soviet Jews during World War II, including those who personally experienced the Holocaust, those who served in the Red Army and those who found themselves in the Soviet rear, questions of identity and belonging became increasingly important. Those questions arose not only due to the growing awareness of the Nazi policy of annihilating the Jews, but also as a result of the increase in grassroots antisemitism on Soviet territory. The 100 letters presented in 'To Pour Out My Bitter Soul' provide a unique insight into the multi-faceted Jewish life on the soil of the Soviet Union during the years of the Second World War." -- Back cover.