Reviews

• Excellent read. The lives of immigrants living in Eastside NY as WW I broke out.

  Gives an awareness of the struggles for the first generations of immigrants. Having escaped tyrany in Russia, Slavic countries, Poland, Italy they fled to the USA for a brighter future only to find themselves in sweatshops in the garment district, behind pushcarts or struggling in small business in the East side New York. Again slaves in a system in order to feed their poor families. Unions evolved. Religious orthodoxy became diluted. Some out of their own enterprise went from having nothing to become millionares owning large companies. The debates continued as to what political system works....socialism, capitalism, communism etc. There were no answers..just debates and struggle. This book puts a personal face on the struggle with each unique character. Asch is a talented writer, himself a child of immigrant parents. He was a famous Yiddish playwright. He has a strong Jewish point of view in his writing. If you are 3rd/4th generation of immigrant Jewish parents, I strongly suggest you read this book. You will have a renewed respect for your parents/ grandparents point of view...their struggle.....and why they raised you as they did.

• Sholem Asch genius on display.

  Extremely well written by one who knows the culture and dynamics of New York 1900 to 1920 era.

• Early 20th century NYC

  Evocative story of turn of the 20th century NYC. Written by the author of God of Vengeance upon which the play Indecent was based.

• First "Adult" novel

  I remember this book as the first "adult" novel I read. I wanted it for my granddaughter, who is a junior in high school - the same as I was when I read it. Great book!

• Ratings (good, acceptable, etc. must be reliable and accurate.

  Very disapppointing. I used 1/2 a roll of scotch tape to mend torn pages and holes before Icould read comfortably. Upon checking, you will note I have a record of very positive reviews. Not this time.

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