Let My People Go

The untold story of Australia and the Soviet Jews 1959-89.

A riveting account of diplomatic courage, human rights advocacy, and the power of persistence in changing history.

Prime Minister's Literary Award Winner 2016
Let My People Go Book Cover

Book Features

This compelling narrative reveals the untold story of Australia's pivotal role in advocating for Soviet Jewish rights during the Cold War era.

Historical Research

Meticulously researched account based on previously unreleased government documents and personal interviews with key players.

Award Winning

Winner of the Prime Minister's Literary Award 2016, recognized for its outstanding contribution to Australian history.

Global Impact

Chronicles Australia's distinctive diplomatic approach and its significant influence on international human rights advocacy.

About The Book

Between 1959 and 1989, Australia played a remarkable and largely unknown role in advocating for the rights of Soviet Jews. This book reveals how a small group of Australian activists, politicians, and diplomats helped change the course of history.

Drawing on extensive archival research and personal interviews, "Let My People Go" tells the extraordinary story of Australia's humanitarian diplomacy during one of the most challenging periods of the Cold War.

Let My People Go Book
Authors

About The Authors

Sam Lipski is an award-winning journalist and author who has covered international affairs for over five decades. His work on Soviet Jewish emigration began in the 1970s when he first visited the USSR as a correspondent.

Suzanne D. Rutland is Professor Emeritus of Hebrew, Biblical and Jewish Studies at the University of Sydney. She is a leading expert on Australian Jewish history and has written extensively on Jewish education.

Combined Expertise

  • Extensive access to government archives
  • Personal interviews with key historical figures
  • Deep understanding of Australian-Soviet relations

Media & Reviews

Discover interviews, podcasts, reviews, and media coverage of this important historical work.

Launch Events

Join us at these special launch events celebrating the release of "Let My People Go".

Sydney Launch

Sunday May 10, 2015

Jewish Museum - Special presentation and book signing

Melbourne Audio Launch

Sunday May 17, 2015

Beth Weizmann Community Center - Author discussion and Q&A

Sydney Institute Event

Tuesday May 19, 2015

The Sydney Institute - Academic presentation and panel discussion

Readings Bookshop Event

Monday June 1, 2015

Sam Lipski in conversation with Michael Gawenda at Readings St Kilda

What Readers Say

Discover what critics, historians, and readers are saying about this important work.

"An inspiring and fascinating story... Lipski and Rutland have uncovered a remarkable chapter in Australia's diplomatic history."
- John Howard
"A meticulously researched and compelling account of Australia's humanitarian leadership during the Cold War."
- The Australian Jewish News
"This book fills a crucial gap in our understanding of Australia's role in international human rights advocacy."
- Academic Review
Let My People Go Book Cover

Ready To Read This Award-Winning Book?

Discover the untold story of Australia's role in advocating for Soviet Jewish rights during the Cold War. Order your copy today.