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4.2 AVERAGE
4.2 AVERAGE
I was intrigued with the ablution area for males in the Sheikh Zayed Mosque we visited in Abu Dhabi and I was surprised to learn about the importance of the Mikveh for the jewish observances as detailed in this novel. This author has crafted an imaginative and intensely graphic description of the artistic journey of this fictitious Brooklyn artist. I had not been aware of Chagall's "White Crucifixion" but the author has contrived to weave the painting of a similar work into this novel.
I was interested in the descriptions of Florence, Italy as I admit it is certainly a fascinating place to tour but I was dismayed by the many LOUD bells that assaulted my ears!
I was interested in the descriptions of Florence, Italy as I admit it is certainly a fascinating place to tour but I was dismayed by the many LOUD bells that assaulted my ears!
My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok was the best book I have read this year!!! It is also one of the best books I have ever read. Chaim Potok is such a profound writer. It is understandable to me that Asher Lev was such a passionate character with the parents that he had. His parents were both very passionate people. Unfortunately, the passions were not shared and caused incredible conflict. I am looking forward to reading, The Gift of Asher Lev soon. I can't wait to see where this journey takes him!!!
I enjoyed all the small details that made up the story of the characters and how adeptly the tone of voice changed as Asher aged to give the reader a better mental picture of him becoming a young man. As much a story about the craft of being an artist and painter as it is about the characters.
emotional
inspiring
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Another great book by Potok, although I did not like this as much as I did The Chosen (I just love the relationship between Danny and his father.) Asher is a gifted artist. Since he is a member of the Hasidic Jewish Faith this is not thought of as good (I believe the visual arts are akin to creating idols - it has been several years since I read this). The clash between the modern and traditional worlds, faith and family, self-actualization and self-discipline are presented in this novel.
An interesting story about the conflict between a boy's religious upbringing and his artistic calling. Well written. Powerful, but understated at the same time.
dark
emotional
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
When I was choosing my next book to read, I was looking for something lighthearted. Instead, I stumbled across Asher Lev and was hooked in the first few pages. This book does not meet the qualification of lighthearted, but it's beautiful nonetheless. This is one of the most heartbreaking books I've read in quite a while. I was fascinated by the glimpse I was given into the world of Ladover Judaism and Potok's character came alive to me. The tension that Asher feels because of his devotion to the tradition of his people and his amazing natural inclination to art is stunning. I definitely recommend this, just know that you're not getting into a feel-good read.