I have had the pleasure of reading several other books penned by this author, and I have found myself completely enamored with each and every one of them.

Their writing style is truly captivating, drawing the reader in from the very first page and holding their attention until the very end.

The stories are richly detailed, with well-developed characters and engaging plotlines that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Every book feels like a unique adventure, taking you to different worlds and introducing you to new and interesting people.

This latest read was no exception. It was a truly good read that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for a great book to lose themselves in.

Whether you're a fan of this author or just looking for something new to read, I'm confident that you'll enjoy this book as much as I did.

A 3.5 for me.

This book was truly a captivating blend of the mystical, the strange, and the melancholy. Gershon, the protagonist, seems to be adrift in life. For a significant portion of the first part of the book, he opts to let events unfold and others make choices on his behalf. His roommate and friend, Arthur, on the other hand, grapples with an overwhelming sense of familial guilt. Meanwhile, Gershon embarks on a journey to find meaning through the exploration of Jewish mysticism.

The use of the symbolism of light throughout the book is particularly noteworthy. It is referenced not only in relation to Hebrew scriptures but also in other profound ways. For instance, the light of death brought by the atomic bomb is a powerful and haunting image that adds an additional layer of depth and complexity to the story. Overall, this book offers a unique and thought-provoking reading experience that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned.

I have an unwavering love for everything that Potok has penned. His works are truly a literary gem.

The way he describes the life within a Jewish community is nothing short of remarkable. It is as if he has peeled back the layers and revealed the rich tapestry of their traditions, values, and daily existence.

His descriptions are so vivid and detailed that they transport the reader directly into that community. One can almost feel the warmth of the Sabbath dinners, the excitement of the religious festivals, and the sense of unity among the people.

In comparison to other writings on the same subject, Potok's work stands out as being truly incomparable. He has a unique ability to capture the essence of the Jewish experience and present it in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking.

Whether it is through the eyes of his characters or the narrative itself, Potok's writing offers a profound and intimate look into a world that is often misunderstood or overlooked. It is a testament to his talent as a writer and his deep understanding of the human condition.

I became enthusiastic about this because of his magnificent 'My Name is Asher Lev', which I was very impressed with.

However, in the end, I sat through 399 pages waiting for 'it' to begin or to be revealed. Alas, it never came.

Many discussions about the Talmud and Kabbalah, as well as conversations with and among professors, suggest a depth that I couldn't find in it.

The story itself is very slow and seemed, for a significant part, more like a bare, journalistic, chronological account of daily events than a novel.

I was rather surprised to read several other, mostly favorable reviews below. Maybe I missed something that others had found? They didn't convince me.

Admittedly, it does offer insights into the special phenomenon of'mysticism' and that of a'mystic'. Only, in my opinion, 399 pages weren't necessary for that.

On to other Potoks, perhaps reread 'My Name is Asher Lev'. Or the other, second, Asher Lev of course. Because based solely on 'My Name...' I can say that Potok is a giant. But not everything turns to gold...