A review by wendel
My Name Is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok

challenging dark inspiring sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

An immersive tale which is fit for rereading at different ages. Because, like with all good art, each time you will discover another layer. When I first read it, I was probably 16 and unable to grasp the many layers in this story. The style is ‘show, don’t tell’, so almost nothing is explained - except for some dialogues about art and expression. Asher’s story goes much deeper than having to choose between art, religion, family and community. It also gives a glimpse of how it must have been for many born in the US during or shortly after World War II, being raised by parents who are torn by what’s now called ‘survivors guilt’.