I'm always intrigued reading about other cultures or lifestyles which are quite different from my own. Goodman writes about families who are part of an Orthodox Jewish community who follow Rav Kirshner, who is descended from a line of rabbis from Germany. The group is very strict, and the Rav tightens the demands more every year. It challenges various members to examine their lives and their beliefs. The novel takes place in the mid-1970's, and although the community lives in Washington Heights of NYC, they summer together in Kaaterskill Falls.
Goodman has a deft hand at description, and I particularly enjoyed her nature scenes. Her characters are right lightly drawn, however. I did find the examination of the lives of Orthodox Jews interesting, and how there as many layers of devotion as in the Christian communities.
It took awhile to read, just because I would get rather bored with the mundane daily stuff. However, I think the mundane was part of the intention of the author. Glad I read it, but wouldn't be drawn to ever read it again.
Goodman has a deft hand at description, and I particularly enjoyed her nature scenes. Her characters are right lightly drawn, however. I did find the examination of the lives of Orthodox Jews interesting, and how there as many layers of devotion as in the Christian communities.
It took awhile to read, just because I would get rather bored with the mundane daily stuff. However, I think the mundane was part of the intention of the author. Glad I read it, but wouldn't be drawn to ever read it again.
