Who is the author of 'Kaddish. com'?

The author of 'Kaddish. com' is Nathan Englander.

What are the main themes in 'Kaddish. com'?

The main themes in 'Kaddish. com' include Religious History, Contemporary Fiction, Literature, Spirituality and Religion.

What genre is 'Kaddish. com'?

'Kaddish. com' is categorized as Literature, Spirituality and Religion.

What is the central theme of 'Kaddish.com'?

The central theme of 'Kaddish.com' by Nathan Englander revolves around the struggle with Jewish identity, faith, and the complexities of grief and mourning. The novel explores how traditions can be both a source of comfort and a burden, particularly as the protagonist confronts his own beliefs and responsibilities when faced with the death of his father. The story raises questions about the intersection of modern life and heritage, as well as the personal implications of communal rituals.

Who is the main character in 'Kaddish.com' and what are his struggles?

The main character in 'Kaddish.com' is an Israeli man named Larry. He faces the struggle of reconciling his identity as a secular Jew with the expectations and traditions of his Jewish heritage, particularly in light of his father's death. Larry grapples with feelings of guilt, loss, and the pressures of fulfilling the religious obligations associated with mourning, including reciting the Kaddish, the Jewish prayer for the dead. His journey explores themes of faith, obligation, and the complexities of family relationships.

How does the concept of mourning play a role in the story?

In 'Kaddish.com', mourning plays a central role as it explores themes of grief, memory, and the Jewish mourning practices. The protagonist, who is grappling with the death of his father, is confronted with the expectations of saying Kaddish, the Jewish prayer for the dead, which underscores his struggles with identity, faith, and familial obligations. The story examines how mourning can be both a personal and communal experience, highlighting the tensions between maintaining traditions and the complexities of modern life. Mourning serves as a catalyst for the protagonist's journey, pushing him to confront his past, his relationship with his father, and what it means to honor a loved one after their death.

What is the significance of the Kaddish prayer in the narrative?

In 'Kaddish.com' by Nathan Englander, the Kaddish prayer serves as a central motif that underscores themes of faith, loss, and identity. The narrative explores the complexities of mourning within Jewish tradition, where the Kaddish is recited in memory of the deceased, signifying the bond between life and death. The protagonist's struggle to recite the Kaddish for his father while navigating modern life, secularism, and his own estrangement from religious practices emphasizes the tension between personal belief and communal obligation. The prayer symbolizes not only a connection to heritage and family but also the weight of grief and the search for meaning in the face of mortality.

In what ways does the author address the conflict between tradition and modernity in the book?

In 'Kaddish.com', Nathan Englander explores the conflict between tradition and modernity through the protagonist's struggle with Jewish rituals and cultural expectations after the death of his father. The main character, who is more aligned with a secular lifestyle, finds himself at odds with the traditional Jewish obligation to say the Kaddish for his deceased father. This obligation becomes a source of tension as he navigates his responsibilities within a modern context that often conflicts with ancient practices. Englander highlights the juxtaposition of the character's reluctance to engage with tradition against the communal and familial pressures that insist on honoring those customs. Throughout the narrative, characters embody differing attitudes toward faith, ritual, and cultural identity, demonstrating how modern life complicates the adherence to long-standing traditions. Ultimately, the book serves as a meditation on the meaning of faith, the relevance of tradition in contemporary life, and the personal journey of reconciling one's past with present choices.

Kaddish. com

In 'Kaddish.com', Nathan Englander weaves a poignant tale that explores faith, loss, and the complex ties of family. The narrative revolves around a man who finds himself grappling with his Jewish identity and the rituals that tether him to his heritage. After his father passes away, he must navigate the murky waters of mourning and memory, all while reluctantly turning to an unorthodox online service to fulfill a sacred promise. As the protagonist delves deeper into his role and responsibilities, he uncovers surprising truths about love, obligation, and the very essence of remembrance. This thought-provoking story captivates readers, inviting them to ponder their own connections to tradition and the digital age.

By Nathan Englander

Published: 2019

Literature Spirituality and Religion Religious History Contemporary Fiction

Start Listening

0:000:00

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Book Collections you might like →

Douglas Murray's Book Recommendations

Douglas Murray is a renowned British author, journalist, and political commentator known for his incisive works on contemporary political and social issues. He gained significant acclaim with his book "The Strange Death of Europe: Immigration, Identity, Islam," which critically examines the impact of mass migration and cultural change in Europe. Murray is also the author of "The Madness of Crowds: Gender, Race and Identity," where he explores the complexities and consequences of identity politics. As an associate editor at The Spectator, he regularly contributes thought-provoking articles on global affairs and cultural debates. His eloquent and often controversial perspectives have made him a prominent voice in modern discourse.

View Collection

Lex Fridman's Book Recommendations

Lex Fridman is an artificial intelligence researcher, podcaster, and MIT professor, known for his work in autonomous vehicles, robotics, and deep learning. Fridman has gained widespread popularity through his podcast, Lex Fridman Podcast, where he interviews leading thinkers in science, technology, and philosophy, exploring topics like AI, consciousness, and the future of humanity. His academic work focuses on human-centered AI, aiming to create machines that can better understand and interact with humans. Fridman’s ability to distill complex topics into accessible conversations has earned him a large following, and his podcast is known for its thoughtful, in-depth discussions with some of the brightest minds of our time. He is also an advocate for the responsible development of AI, emphasizing the ethical implications of this rapidly advancing technology. Outside of academia and podcasting, Fridman is a practitioner of jiu-jitsu and frequently speaks about the importance of discipline and continuous learning.

View Collection

Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations

Alicia Keys, an acclaimed American singer-songwriter and classically trained pianist, has made significant contributions to the music industry with her soulful voice and compelling lyrics. She burst onto the scene with her debut album, "Songs in A Minor," which earned her five Grammy Awards. In addition to her musical achievements, Keys is also a celebrated author; her memoir "More Myself: A Journey" provides an intimate look at her life and career. She has used her platform to advocate for social justice, co-founding the Keep a Child Alive organization to combat HIV/AIDS in Africa. Alicia Keys continues to inspire through her artistry and activism, leaving a lasting impact on both music and literature.

View Collection

Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations

Audrey Gelman is an American entrepreneur and writer, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of The Wing, a network of co-working spaces and social clubs designed for women. She has been recognized for her innovative approach to creating supportive environments for professional women, significantly impacting feminist discourse and workplace equality. Gelman has also contributed thought-provoking essays to prominent publications such as The New York Times and The New Yorker, where she discusses gender, politics, and culture. Her leadership at The Wing has been celebrated for fostering community and collaboration among women. Additionally, Gelman's influence extends to the political sphere, having previously worked as a press aide on several high-profile campaigns.

View Collection

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.

View Collection

Jon Stewart's Book Recommendations

Jon Stewart is an American comedian, writer, and former host of The Daily Show, where he gained fame for his satirical take on news and politics. Stewart transformed The Daily Show into a critical voice in American media, blending humor with hard-hitting commentary on political and social issues. After stepping down from the show, Stewart has continued to advocate for causes like 9/11 first responders and veterans' rights. He is also a filmmaker, directing the political satire film Irresistible. Stewart remains a significant figure in American culture, known for his wit, activism, and influence on political discourse.

View Collection

Craig Blair's Book Recommendations

Craig Blair is an Australian venture capitalist and co-founder of AirTree Ventures, one of the country’s leading venture capital firms. Blair has been instrumental in backing early-stage tech startups in sectors like fintech, SaaS, and health tech. Under his leadership, AirTree has become a major player in the Australian and New Zealand startup ecosystems, providing funding and mentorship to some of the region’s most successful companies. Blair is also a strong advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship in Australia, often speaking about the need to support founders with long-term vision. His work in venture capital has positioned him as a key figure in the Australian tech scene.

View Collection

Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations

Jordan Peterson is a Canadian psychologist, author, and professor, best known for his work on psychology, political philosophy, and cultural criticism. His book 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos became a global bestseller, offering advice on personal responsibility, order, and meaning in life. Peterson’s lectures, which cover topics like mythology, religion, and self-improvement, have garnered millions of views online, making him a polarizing figure in both academic and popular circles. He is known for his critiques of political correctness and his emphasis on individual responsibility. Peterson’s influence has sparked widespread debate about free speech, identity politics, and mental health.

View Collection

Christopher Hitchens's Book Recommendations

Christopher Hitchens (1949-2011) was a prolific British-American author, journalist, and literary critic known for his sharp wit and unapologetic criticism of religion and political figures. He penned numerous books, including the best-selling "God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything," which cemented his reputation as a leading public intellectual and outspoken atheist. Hitchens contributed regularly to prominent publications such as Vanity Fair, The Nation, and The Atlantic, showcasing his wide-ranging knowledge and incisive commentary. He was also lauded for his powerful oratory skills, engaging in countless debates and lectures worldwide. His memoir, "Hitch-22," offers an introspective look into his life, further solidifying his legacy as a formidable voice in contemporary literature and thought.

View Collection

Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero is a renowned designer, illustrator, and author best known for his influential book "The Shape of Design," which explores the philosophy and practice of design. His work emphasizes the intersection of creativity and human experience, earning him a respected place in both the design and literary communities. Chimero has contributed essays and lectures that have inspired a new generation of thinkers in the creative industries. He has also been recognized for his ability to distill complex ideas into accessible, thought-provoking content. Beyond his writing, Chimero's design projects and illustrations have been featured in numerous prestigious publications and exhibitions.

View Collection

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.

Kaddish. com

Start Listening

The Mike & Casey Show

You might also like →

Captive Prince

The Book of Jewish Food

Journey to the End of the Night

What School Could Be

A History of God

The Satanic Verses

Rebecca

Goodnight Moon Board Book 60th Anniversary Edition

A Room of One's Own

The Word for World is Forest

The Complete Novels of Jane Austen

Powering the Future

A Death in the Family

Cultural Amnesia

Feel Free

The Anarchy

Men Explain Things to Me

Dear Reader

History of Western Philosophy

The New Executive Brain:Frontal Lobes in a Complex World

Callings

Thrown

The Family Virtues Guide

A Manual for Cleaning Women

Dead Girls

Justice on Trial

A Sacred Duty

Crudo

The Book of Virtues

Eloquent Rage

Book Collections you might like →

Douglas Murray's Book Recommendations

Lex Fridman's Book Recommendations

Alicia Keys's Book Recommendations

Audrey Gelman's Book Recommendations

Barack Obama's Book Recommendations

Jon Stewart's Book Recommendations

Craig Blair's Book Recommendations

Jordan Peterson's Book Recommendations

Christopher Hitchens's Book Recommendations

Frank Chimero's Book Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Genres

Genres

Genres

Featured Collections