There is an old joke about Jews:
Bad Jews: A History of American Jewish Politics and Identities, by Emily Tamkin, was published last fall. Basically, it is a sociological study of modern American Jews while looking back on our history. Using over 100 interviews, she dives into what it is to be an American Jew in the 21st century. Going into topics such as Israel/Zionism, antisemitism, politics, social justice, and the level of religious observance, she creates a micro and macro image of a people that is far from a monolith.
I enjoyed this book. It paints a picture that reveals the diversity and unique religious/cultural makeup of members of the Jewish faith who call America home. It also (I hope) breaks the stereotype of what a Jew is and what a Jew isn’t.
Do I recommend it? Absolutely.
Bad Jews: A History of American Jewish Politics and Identities is available wherever books are sold.
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