A review by ricefun
Shylock Is My Name by Howard Jacobson
2.0
I've been looking forward to reading this installment of the Hogarth Shakespeare series since I heard Jacobson being interviewed on Fresh Air several years ago. I've been enjoying reading the modern adaptations that the Hogarth series is commissioning, and really thought that this would be a great opportunity to read an adaptation of a play that I'm less familiar with.
I had a very difficult time making myself finish this book. There were eye-opening portions of the story, and I appreciate the opportunity to experience one snapshot of a current Jewish experience. With that being said, the entire book was so dark and dismal. This certainly may be the reality of some experiences, but I also know both Shakespeare and Judaism are elevated by their ability to incorporate light and lightheartedness into heavy subjects. This just didn't work for me as a great adaptation.
I had a very difficult time making myself finish this book. There were eye-opening portions of the story, and I appreciate the opportunity to experience one snapshot of a current Jewish experience. With that being said, the entire book was so dark and dismal. This certainly may be the reality of some experiences, but I also know both Shakespeare and Judaism are elevated by their ability to incorporate light and lightheartedness into heavy subjects. This just didn't work for me as a great adaptation.