A coming-of-age classic about two Jewish boys growing up in Brooklyn in the 1940s, this “profound and universal” story of what we share across cultures remains deeply pertinent today (The Wall Street Journal). It’s the spring of 1944 and fifteen-year-olds Reuven Malter and Danny Saunders have lived five blocks apart all their lives. But they’ve never met, not until the day an accident during a … accident during a softball game sparks an unlikely friendship. Soon these two boys–one expected to become a Hasidic rebbe, the other at ease with secular America–are drawn into one another’s worlds despite one father’s strong opposition.
Set against the backdrop of WWII and the creation of the state of Israel, The Chosen is a poignant novel about transformation and tradition, growing up and growing wise, and finding yourself–even if that might mean leaving your community.more
It was outstanding. I read it 25 years ago and found it a good story about two kids who met competing in a baseball game. I Just finished my second reading and gained so much more from a new perspective. The two boys were so well developed they became real, emotionally, physically and intellectually. Chaim Potok presented a new culture to me, with the rich history and current beliefs of the Hasidic and Orthodox Jews.
wonderful thought provoking book. I read this years ago, and also saw the movie. It’s a story that stays with you for years.
This is one of a short list of books that I return to every 5 years, or so. And I find something new each time.
Although I have always been a reader, I seldom read books twice – even when I’ve loved them – this is one of the few exceptions – brilliantly done!!
excellent book by excellent writer; well drawn character & story