TL;DR
The Chosen by Chaim Potok recounts the poignant friendship between two Jewish teenagers from different backgrounds amidst the pressures of religious adherence.
What is The Chosen about
The Chosen, written by Chaim Potok and published in 1967, is a novel that explores the lives of two Jewish boys growing up in Brooklyn during the end of World War II. Reuven Malter, an Orthodox Jew, and Danny Saunders, the son of a Hasidic rabbi, form an unlikely friendship despite their differing backgrounds and upbringing. The novel delves into their struggles with religious expectations, their familial relationships, and their personal growth. As they navigate their formative years, they learn from each other's worlds and find a deeper understanding of their identities and beliefs.
The Chosen 6 Key Takeaways
Introduction of Reuven and Danny
Reuven Malter and Danny Saunders meet at a baseball game, which results in a confrontation that eventually leads to the start of their friendship.
Development of Friendship
Despite their initial hostility, Reuven and Danny bond over their intellectual pursuits and philosophical discussions, sharing their dreams and struggles.
Religious and Familial Pressures
Both boys face immense pressure from their fathers regarding their religious paths—Reuven's father encourages open-mindedness, while Danny's father expects him to inherit the rabbinical position.
World War II Impact
The backdrop of World War II and the Holocaust profoundly affects the characters, particularly influencing their views on faith and responsibility.
Danny's Conflict and Resolution
Danny grapples with his loyalty to his father's expectations and his own desire to pursue psychology, ultimately finding a way to honor both his heritage and his personal ambitions.
Reuven’s Growth
Reuven matures through his friendship with Danny, learning to appreciate different perspectives and becoming more resolute in his own beliefs.
Top The Chosen Quotes
- 'I've begun to realize that you can listen to silence and learn from it. It has a quality and a dimension all its own.'
- 'A man must fill his life with meaning, meaning is not automatically given to life.'
Who should read The Chosen?
The Chosen is ideal for readers interested in Jewish culture, religious identity, and the coming-of-age genre. It offers deep insights into the complexities of friendship, faith, and the struggle between tradition and modernity, appealing to those who appreciate thoughtful and reflective narratives.
The Chosen Best Reviews
- The New York Times: 'A profound, moving story about friendship, faith, and the complex layers of familial expectations. Potok’s narrative is both a sensitive portrayal of Jewish life and a universal tale of personal growth.'
- The Guardian: 'A powerful exploration of the intersections between tradition and modernity. Potok masterfully captures the tension and beauty of cultural and religious identity.'
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The Chosen FAQs
What is The Chosen by Potok about?
The Chosen explores the friendship between two Jewish teenagers, Reuven Malter and Danny Saunders, in Brooklyn during the end of World War II, delving into themes of religious expectations, personal growth, and cultural identity.
What is the main message of the book The Chosen?
The main message of The Chosen is the conflict between tradition and modernity, particularly within the context of Jewish religious life, and the importance of understanding and reconciling these opposing forces.
Is The Chosen a good book?
Yes, The Chosen is highly regarded as a classic, praised for its profound exploration of friendship, faith, and the complexities of cultural and familial expectations.