Take a photo of a barcode or cover
A review by dabbo
Shmutz by Felicia Berliner
emotional
funny
informative
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.0
Raizl is an 18 year old Hassidic woman. You discover she is hiding a porn addiction while trying to navigate her religious upbringing and the customs, traditions, and rituals that come with it while also discovering herself and her sexuality.
It has really heart-warming and beautiful moments. Also some heart-wrenching ones too. Lots of graphic descriptions of the porn she’s watching and lots of Yiddish (with a glossary in the back.) I do wish the plot gave a little more because so much happens with little consequence. The ending is hopeful but I think there could have been more done with Raizl’s experiences that would be absolutely life-altering if anyone in her family found out about them.
Overall, I think it’s a fresh debut and it felt like a very quick read.
It has really heart-warming and beautiful moments. Also some heart-wrenching ones too. Lots of graphic descriptions of the porn she’s watching and lots of Yiddish (with a glossary in the back.) I do wish the plot gave a little more because so much happens with little consequence. The ending is hopeful but I think there could have been more done with Raizl’s experiences that would be absolutely life-altering if anyone in her family found out about them.
Overall, I think it’s a fresh debut and it felt like a very quick read.