In 'My Name Is Asher Lev,' we delve into the life of a young Jewish boy torn between his artistic passion and the expectations of his devout community. Asher's journey of self-discovery takes him from the confines of his family's traditional beliefs to the vibrant world of art that challenges everything he knows. His struggle to balance faith and creativity leads to a profound conflict that shapes his identity. Will Asher ultimately choose to follow his heart, or will he succumb to the pressures of his upbringing? This poignant tale explores the complexities of culture, creativity, and the quest for personal truth.
By Chaim Potok
Published: 2003
"Art is a reflection of the soul, and creating it is the truest form of worship."
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • In this modern classic from the National Book Award–nominated author of The Chosen, a young religious artist is compulsively driven to render the world he sees and feels, even when it leads him to blasphemy. “A novel of finely articulated tragic power .... Little short of a work of genius.”—The New York Times Book Review Asher Lev is a Ladover Hasid who keeps kosher, prays three times a day and believes in the Ribbono Shel Olom, the Master of the Universe. He grows up in a cloistered Hasidic community in postwar Brooklyn, a world suffused by ritual and revolving around a charismatic Rebbe. He is torn between two identities, the one consecrated to God, the other devoted only to art and his imagination, and in time, his artistic gift threatens to estrange him from that world and the parents he adores. As it follows his struggle, My Name Is Asher Lev becomes a luminous, visionary portrait of the artist, by turns heartbreaking and exultant.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
Tom Hiddleston is a renowned British actor celebrated for his versatile performances across stage and screen. While best known for his portrayal of Loki in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Hiddleston has also made significant contributions to literature through his involvement in audiobook narrations and adaptations of classic works, such as "The Red Necklace" by Sally Gardner. A classically trained actor from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), he has performed in numerous Shakespearean productions, bringing timeless literary characters to life. Hiddleston's eloquent voice and deep understanding of literary texts have earned him acclaim in both the acting and literary communities. Beyond his performances, he engages in philanthropic efforts, often supporting educational initiatives that promote literature and the arts.
Alain de Botton is a Swiss-British philosopher, author, and founder of The School of Life, an organization dedicated to teaching emotional intelligence and life skills. De Botton’s books, such as The Consolations of Philosophy and How Proust Can Change Your Life, blend philosophy with everyday life, offering practical wisdom on love, work, and happiness. His work has popularized philosophy, making it accessible to a wider audience. De Botton is also a public speaker and essayist, frequently exploring topics related to human fulfillment and personal growth. His unique approach to philosophy has made him a respected voice in contemporary culture.
Caterina Fake is an American entrepreneur and investor, best known for co-founding Flickr, one of the first photo-sharing platforms that helped define social media and web 2.0. After the success of Flickr, Fake went on to co-found Hunch, a recommendation engine that was later acquired by eBay. She is a partner at Yes VC, a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups, with a focus on companies that foster human connection and creativity. Fake is also an advocate for ethical technology and often speaks about the importance of designing products that prioritize user well-being. Her contributions to tech and her insights on the intersection of technology and culture have made her a respected leader in the industry.
Harry Styles is a British singer, songwriter, and actor, best known as a member of the globally successful boy band One Direction before launching a successful solo career. Styles’ solo work has earned critical acclaim for its blend of rock, pop, and indie influences, with hits like Sign of the Times and Watermelon Sugar. In addition to music, Styles has also made a mark in fashion, known for his gender-fluid style and collaborations with brands like Gucci. He is also an actor, starring in films like Dunkirk and Don't Worry Darling. Styles is recognized for his artistic versatility and cultural impact.
Gaby Goldberg is an investor and Web3 advocate, focusing on the intersection of consumer technology, culture, and decentralized finance (DeFi). She works with TCG (The Chernin Group), where she invests in companies that are shaping the future of digital platforms and social communities. Goldberg is passionate about how blockchain technology can empower creators and foster new forms of ownership and collaboration. She is also a vocal advocate for women in tech and frequently shares insights on the future of the internet and decentralized systems. Her work positions her as a key figure in the growing Web3 and crypto ecosystems.
John Green is an American author, YouTuber, and educator, best known for his best-selling novels The Fault in Our Stars and Looking for Alaska. Green's writing often explores themes of love, loss, and the complexity of adolescence, resonating with both young adults and adults alike. He is also the co-creator of the YouTube channels Vlogbrothers and CrashCourse, where he educates viewers on history, literature, and science in an engaging, accessible way. Green is known for his deep empathy and ability to connect with readers through emotionally powerful storytelling. His work in literature and online education has made him a beloved figure in both media and education circles.
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.
Soman Chainani is a renowned author best known for his bestselling fantasy series, "The School for Good and Evil," which has been translated into multiple languages and adapted into a film by Netflix. He is a graduate of Harvard University, where he studied English and American Literature, and holds an MFA in Film from Columbia University. Chainani's work often explores themes of friendship, identity, and the nature of good and evil, captivating young adult readers worldwide. In addition to his achievements as a novelist, he has also received accolades for his work as a screenwriter and filmmaker. Chainani continues to be a significant figure in contemporary children's and young adult literature, inspiring a new generation of readers and writers.
Showing 8 of 16 related collections
“Art is a reflection of the soul, and creating it is the truest form of worship.”
My Name Is Asher Lev
By Chaim Potok
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Chaim Potok (1929-2002) was an American author and rabbi, renowned for his insightful exploration of Jewish identity and cultural conflict. His most notable works include 'The Chosen' (1967), which tells the story of two boys from different Jewish backgrounds, and 'My Name Is Asher Lev' (1972), which follows an artist's struggle between faith and artistic expression. Potok's writing style is characterized by its deep emotional resonance, richly drawn characters, and the intricate interplay of tradition and modernity, reflecting his own experiences as a Jewish intellectual in America.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'The Book of Why', Judea Pearl and Dana Mackenzie unveil the profound concepts of causality and its pivotal role in understanding the world around us. They challenge traditional statistical methods, introducing the causal revolution that will change how we interpret data. Through captivating anecdotes and accessible explanations, the authors reveal the tools necessary to discern cause from correlation. Readers will be drawn into the mystery of why things happen, unfolding layers of knowledge that provoke deeper inquiry. This book is not just about statistics; it's a pathway to mastering the art of reasoning itself.
In 'What We See When We Read', Peter Mendelsund invites readers to explore the intricate dance between text and imagination. This thought-provoking examination delves into how words conjure vivid images in our minds, shaping our perception of literature. Through an array of visual interpretations, Mendelsund challenges us to consider the deeply personal nature of reading. Each chapter teases apart the connection between language and imagery, suggesting that every reader's experience is uniquely their own. Prepare to see familiar stories in an entirely new light and discover the profound impact of reading on our inner worlds.
In 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt, a group of elite college students become enmeshed in a world of intellectual pursuit and moral ambiguity. Drawn together by their profound appreciation for classical literature, their camaraderie soon spirals into obsession. A shocking betrayal unravels their seemingly perfect lives, leading to a dark twist of fate that questions the very nature of friendship and integrity. Rich in psychological depth and unsettling intrigue, the narrative explores the costs of beauty and the dangerous allure of secrets. As the layers of deception peel away, readers are left to ponder what lengths one might go to protect the truth.
'Of Human Bondage' follows the tumultuous life of Philip Carey, an orphaned boy with a clubfoot, who struggles against societal expectations and his own passions. As he navigates love, art, and the quest for meaning, Philip finds himself entangled in obsessive relationships, particularly with the enigmatic Mildred. Maugham intricately explores themes of desire, individuality, and the shackles of emotional dependency. His journey is marked by poignant self-discovery and the harsh realities of human existence. Will Philip ever find true freedom, or is he destined to remain bound by his own human struggles?
In 'A Room of One's Own', Virginia Woolf crafts a groundbreaking feminist essay that explores the relationship between women and fiction. She argues that a woman must have financial independence and private space to create art, delving into the constraints imposed by society. Through the lens of history and literature, Woolf challenges the patriarchal norms that have silenced women's voices. With philosophical insights and imaginative storytelling, she illuminates the struggle for identity and expression. This seminal work invites readers to reassess the value of their own creative spaces.
In Joan Didion's haunting novel 'Play It As It Lays', we follow the disintegration of Maria Wyeth, a troubled actress navigating the chaos of 1970s Los Angeles. With a fractured narrative style, Didion explores themes of identity, despair, and the superficial nature of Hollywood's glitz. As Maria grapples with personal loss and societal expectations, the stark reality of her existence unfolds in gripping vignettes. Each encounter reveals deeper truths about the emptiness behind the glamour, leaving readers questioning the cost of ambition. This poignant exploration of sanity and survival invites readers into a world where reality is as elusive as a fading star.
In 'The Moth Snowstorm,' Michael McCarthy masterfully intertwines personal anecdotes with a poignant examination of the natural world. As he reflects on the loss of biodiversity and the beauty of nature, he invites readers on a journey through memory and emotion. The metaphor of a moth snowstorm serves as a powerful symbol of fleeting moments and the fragility of life. McCarthy's lyrical prose awakens a sense of urgency about our environmental responsibilities, urging us to reconnect with the wonders of the earth. Are we ready to heed the call before it's too late?
In 'A Still Quiet Place for Athletes,' Amy Saltzman takes readers on a transformative journey into the heart of mindfulness and mental well-being for athletes. Discover how the power of stillness can enhance performance, focus, and resilience in high-pressure sports environments. Saltzman blends science and personal anecdotes, revealing techniques that go beyond physical training to nurture the mind. With practical exercises and meditative practices, she empowers athletes to cultivate inner peace amidst chaos. Uncover the secrets to unlocking your full potential, both on and off the field!
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
