A review copy was provided to me by the author in exchange of an honest review. This did not affect my views and opinions of the book in any way.
Funny, poignant, and revelatory while plumbing the emotional depths of the relationship between estranged brothers, Goyhood examines what happens when one becomes unmoored from a comfortable, spiritual existence and must decide whether coincidence is in fact destiny.
When Mayer (née Marty) Belkin fled small town Georgia for Brooklyn nearly thirty years ago, he thought he’d left his wasted youth behind. Now he’s a Talmud scholar married into one of the greatest rabbinical families in the world – a dirt poor country boy reinvented in the image of God.
But his mother’s untimely death brings a shocking Mayer and his ne’er-do-well twin brother David aren’t, in fact, Jewish. Traumatized and spiritually bereft, Mayer’s only recourse is to convert to Judaism. But the earliest date he can get is a week from now. What are two estranged brothers to do in the interim?
So begins the Belkins’ Rumspringa through America’s Deep South with Mom’s ashes in tow, plus two an insightful Instagram influencer named Charlayne Valentine and Popeye, a one-eyed dog. As the crew gets tangled up in a series of increasingly surreal adventures, Mayer grapples with a God who betrayed him and an emotionally withdrawn wife in Brooklyn who has yet to learn her husband is a counterfeit Jew.
Goyhood by Reuven Fenton is a captivating memoir that delves deep into the intertwining realms of religion, identity, and the immigrant experience. Centered on the author’s Jewish heritage, the book eloquently discusses how one should navigate life and adapt to its myriad challenges. Fenton’s narrative is both poignant and humorous, offering readers a thoughtful reflection on the balance between holding onto one’s roots and assimilating into a new culture.
The writing is exceptional, with subtle hints woven throughout the narrative that encourage readers to think deeply about the themes without feeling spoon-fed. This nuanced approach allows for a more engaging and introspective reading experience. The memoir doesn’t just recount Fenton’s life; it invites readers to reflect on their own journeys and the universal quest for belonging and understanding.
I found the book to be an immensely enjoyable read. Its insightful observations and the delicate interplay of humor and seriousness make it a standout memoir. Fenton’s ability to address profound topics with such grace and subtlety is commendable.
I love this book so much and consider it a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of cultural identity and personal growth. I give Goyhood a well-deserved 4 royal stars.
The Queen Reads♕ 