Za Okean. [Over the Ocean].

A scarce account of Jewish emigration from Russia to America by the notable writer Alexander Fedorov. Fedorov was known predominantly for his poetry but travelled on one of the ships to New York to write this journalistic piece, documenting the difficult journey which thousands had chosen to make. In his work he reflects on the pogroms and persecution which had taken place in the 'monarchical regime' of the Russian Empire and describes New York as 'like living 100 years in the future'. He is amazed that a young student can rent a room without anyone asking for his passport, without anyone following him or asking what he's doing, reading or thinking. On returning to his native Odessa, the sight of men with whips in their hands, revolvers in the belts and knives in their boots made him feel as if he was very much returning to the oppressive world of 19th century.

The beautiful cover designed by Mikhail Isaakovich Solomonov, also from Odessa, features immigrants with the Statue of Liberty as a beacon of hope surrounded by wonderful Art Nouveau motifs.