Steinberg has in the past produced valuable work on the "voices" of remarkable individuals, especially workers, in the revolutionary process, and the new book builds on this ... There are few accounts that so sharply bring to life a wide range of ethnic groups, especially Ukrainians, Jews and the peoples of Central Asia. Steinberg also examines the distinct experience of the peasantry and offers vignettes on the travails and rebellions of country-dwellers. The purpose is always to portray the entire population as having been active in its own local revolutions.

Robert Service, Times Literary Supplement

Steinberg has offered an excellent introduction, vividly immersing the reader into revolutionary Russia, while offering an excellent overview of the state of research. The book closes with an excellent bibliography, while Steinberg's chapter notes contain advanced references, often including methodically relevant literature on the nineteenth century as well as the Soviet Union. The book as a whole, but especially the source-focused introduction and the thematic essays, can be unreservedly recommended. It will prove especially helpful both for undergraduate and graduate students as well as for the interested lay reader.

Daniel Schrader, H-Net

draws in particular on contemporary journalism of the period, which provides some fascinating insights into attitudes and experiences of the revolution ... [he] provides some fascinating insight into issues of nationality, religion and ethnic identity during the revolutionary period. Steinberg also gives a very useful and detailed bibliography of English language publications about the Russian Revolution which forms a good guide to anyone wanting to read further.

James Eaden, International Socialism