Helpful Score: 3
This is the second novel that I have read by Chaim Potok, and again, it is one of the best novels I have read in quite some time. The reader is immediately drawn into the lives of the Lev family. Potok's writing is emotional, and I felt instantly connected with the main character, Asher. The reader can easily sense his frustrations and pain. One of my favorite aspects of the novel was that the main character's life centered around art. Throughout the whole novel, I wanted him to triumph in this area. I also connected with Asher's struggle between his religion and his passion. It was truly a moving novel, and I am ready to read more of Potok's work.
Helpful Score: 1
This simple, straight-forward prose is reminiscent of how the average person's stream of consciousness truly flows; sometimes with no real destination, but a clear intent, beautifully navigating the pain caused by a soul divided. Torn between fulfilling one's duties to faith and family, and accepting that which defines us from within instead of how the outside world would make us, Asher Lev is an incredibly tortured character who attempts to exist in two worlds at odds. This is one of my all-time favorite novels, and a must-read for anyone who has ever had to make a choice between the traditional norm, and the yearning for something truly great.
Chaim Potok is a master of creating poetry in his writing. The characters are well developed and especially Asher and his pursuance of his gift in such defiance of what he has been taught about who he is or should be. The language is so clear that we hear and see and understand every element. Bravo!
Great book, can't go wrong with this author.
A tragic story told while allowing a window into a closed culture.
A novel of finely articulated tragic power.
This is a classic -- a must-read for everyone.
From the back cover " Here is the original deeply moving story of Asher Lev, the religious boy with an overwhelming need to draw,to paint, to render the world he knows and the pain he feels on canvas for everyone tosee. A loner, Asher has an extraordinary God-given gift that cannot be controlled, but that possesses a spirit all its own. It is a force that he must learn to master without shaming his people or relinquishing any of his deeply felt Judiasm."
This is an extra copy, I have not read it yet.
This is an extra copy, I have not read it yet.
"My Mame Is Asher Lev is certain to widen Chaim Potok's already impressive audience." The Miami Herald
A great book. I'm only selling it because I have two copies. An amazing book. Everyone I know who's read it has loved it.
