A traditional family saga; the narrative reminded me of an Edna Ferber or Belva Plain novel. The storyline will ring true for many descendants of JewsA traditional family saga; the narrative reminded me of an Edna Ferber or Belva Plain novel. The storyline will ring true for many descendants of Jews who escaped the pogroms and persecution of Eastern Europe in the early 1900's. Whether they immigrated to the United States, England—or in my case—Argentina, Mosco's insightful novel is evocative of the era. Readers are introduced to many characters right off the bat—almost too many—however, I eventually resonated with Sarah. She reminded me of the women in my family, women who will pillars of strength and courage. I saw the story unfold through Sarah's experience, through her heartache, hopes and fears. In today's world, where we are used to a different writing style—a different pace or depth—some may find this novel to be old-fashioned or trite. Not so for me. I thought it was a gem and am grateful I found it!...more
What a treasure. Inspiring. Thought-provoking. Enlightening. “Dignity is a powerful thing. We shall use it to break through the walls of the ghetto anWhat a treasure. Inspiring. Thought-provoking. Enlightening. “Dignity is a powerful thing. We shall use it to break through the walls of the ghetto and set ourselves free.”
I am fascinated with this time period: The Rothschilds, the Montefiores...what these family were able to accomplish under that level of persecution and oppression is mind boggling! Sara Aharoni has done a remarkable job bringing this family to life for me. Kol hakavod. ...more
What a tragic read. And I'm not speaking of the storyline. I know next to nothing about this author, but I feel sorry for what must have been her pitiWhat a tragic read. And I'm not speaking of the storyline. I know next to nothing about this author, but I feel sorry for what must have been her pitiful existence. What need was there to spew forth this venomous, stereotypical trope? That Oscar Wilde called this work "a classic," with its "directness" and "uncompromising truths," only strengthens my opinion. This book is "a shande far di Goyim."
Someone compared the author to Jane Austen for her style and social commenataries. I wholeheartedly disagree. Where Austen was witty, Levy was inciting and sardonic....more
Well researched, fascinating, tragic...but something was definitely missing for me. Can't quite put my finger on it...Well researched, fascinating, tragic...but something was definitely missing for me. Can't quite put my finger on it......more
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