Absolutely fascinating and tragic at the same time. ( )

I received a ARC through Goodreads.
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This book took me on a journey and introduced me to the inner world of an ultra-Orthodox family. It was enlightening and interesting to read the struggles, responsibilities and choices that the Weiss females make, which ultimately affect the other in some ways or another.

It's always the quiet ones that are the troublemaker ;) Who would have guessed that obedient and understanding Rose would be the one to start off the traditional path and end up cleaving a path of her own and ultimately cause Rivka to go done a similar path.

It was interesting to read how much Rose and Rivka are like mirror images of each other through the choices that they make. However there were major differences, whereas Rose went one route, Rivka almost ended up being completely dependent on others (and I say almost because of what could have been).

I felt like it was an interesting and almost coming of age read. It shows the struggles and responsibilities that comes with 'freedom' for each and every choice that each ladies made, while keeping it grounded and realistic. While there were moments that had me struggle to understand the ultra strict world the Weiss sisters and family grew up with, but that only just goes to show you how descriptive and persuasive the author is at explaining their community and life.

My only critique would be that I wish we got to know and hear more of Pearl's story. ( )

This is the story of an ultra-Orthodox Jewish family in the 1950's. One young female member who is being forced into an arranged marriage at age 17 runs away to seek the freedom to be an independent photographer. Forty years later, she is followed by another member of the family. This is a novel about choice and how every decision has unforeseen consequences. I found it interesting how those who ran away still found solace in the rituals of what they felt was an oppressive life style. The novel was somewhat predictable, but I enjoy books about the culture of Orthodox Judaism and this book fit well into that category. ( )

Excellent story of two sisters being brought up as strict Orthodox Jews in old New York. It is also the story of one sister living by the rules and the other not doing that. I was surprised at the subservience of the women in the practicing sect. Very well written with a glossary in the back of Hebrew and Yiddish terms for us goys! ( )

In attempting to provide contrast she made the religious world seem much too closed off. Interesting story of sisters. I continue to enjoy her books. ( )