| When Batsheva and her young daughter, Ayala move into the Observant/Orthodox Jewish community in Memphis, TN, the residents, particularly members of the Ladies' Auxiliary, don't know what to make of her presence. Though she is the widow of a former community member, she is a convert to Judaism, an artist of abstract paintings, and a questioner of religious practice and observance levels.
It is the youths of the community who connect with Batsheva, particularly the teenage girls, who are captivated by her uniqueness. As she creates friendships with the girls (as well as the Rabbi's young son), Batsheva stir up trouble. Mirvis' slice-of-life tale gives her readers an insight into small town, Jewish life and the impact that the American culture/world has on its community. It is a story of miscommunication, gossip, sadness, and hope. | ||
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Plot & Themes Tone of book? - thoughtful Time/era of story - 2000+ (Present Day) Ethnic/Regional/Religion Internal struggle/realization? Yes Struggle over Is this an adult or child's book? - Adult or Young Adult Book Ethnic/regional/gender life Yes Main Character Gender - Female Profession/status: Age: - 40's-50's Ethnicity/Nationality Main Adversary Identity: - an organization Age: - 40's-50's How sensitive is this character? Setting How much descriptions of surroundings? - 5 () United States Yes Small town? Yes Writing Style Amount of dialog - roughly even amounts of descript and dialog |
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