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Cover of AS A JEW
4.63

Based on 73 Goodreads ratings

AS A JEW

by ethical principles and care for others. The struggle to embrace a heritage has been irrevocably complicated by the struggle to embrace a Jewish nation\u002Dstate. In fluent, conversational prose, the author (a former speechwriter for the Obamas) outlines some of the major historical principles behind Judaism. In her account, Judaism is a story of survival, a constant reinventing of tradition for a changing world, and a commitment to preserving the past while living in the present. More than any specific list of laws, rules, or observances, this feature of Judaism lies at the heart of the author’s story. She writes from personal experience, from historical research, and from a truly literary perspective. Responding to the prevalence of anti\u002DJewish incidents after the Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel, she writes: “Relying on incident counts can be like trying to measure humidity with a bucket, as if it were rain. You can wind up with an empty bucket and a lot of people proclaiming that it’s all in your head. Even as you stand before them drenched in sweat and feeling suffocated, they may still insist that you’re overreacting, even making it all up.” It may be uniquely hard to be a Jew these days. But, Jewish or not, it’s even harder to be a mensch."

Book Details

Publisher:Of
Published:2024-01-01
Pages:320
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:9780063374

Reading Info

Age Range:12-18

About This Book

This powerful memoir offers young readers an intimate window into Jewish identity and heritage through the author's personal journey of self-discovery. The narrative weaves together family stories, c...

Our Review

This powerful memoir offers young readers an intimate window into Jewish identity and heritage through the author's personal journey of self-discovery. The narrative weaves together family stories, cultural traditions, and historical context to create a rich tapestry of what it means to grow up Jewish in contemporary society. Young adult readers will find themselves immersed in a story that explores both the challenges and celebrations of maintaining cultural identity while navigating modern life. The author's honest reflections on faith, community, and belonging provide meaningful insights for teens of all backgrounds.

What makes this personal narrative particularly compelling is its ability to balance historical awareness with present-day relevance, making complex topics accessible without oversimplification. Jewish teens will see their experiences validated on the page, while non-Jewish readers gain valuable perspective on a culture they might not otherwise encounter. The memoir's exploration of intergenerational trauma, holiday traditions, and the search for personal meaning within a larger community creates multiple entry points for connection. This thoughtful examination of cultural identity ultimately serves as both mirror and window for young adult readers developing their own sense of self.

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