YA Novel with a Jewish Theme: Once More With Chutzpah by Haley Neil

 

It is not so easy to find a good YA novel on a Jewish topic therefore I was delighted to read - in one long setting - Once More with Chutzpah, the debut novel by Haley Neil. The book is interesting for more than one reason - of, let´s say from the point of view of the topic. 

Checking up the usual list of topics interesting to include in a YA novel - grief, coming out of age, coping with dramatic events - the book also has particular elements pertaining to the Jewish topic. Max and Tally are two American twins, embarked on a summer project - not Taglit - to Israel, their first time abroad. Originary from Massachusetts, their father is Jewish - with an Israeli grandmother - while the mother is Catholic. From the very beginning, there is a non-Orthodox take and this covers other topics as well, including regarding the political situation in Israel and the Palestinian issue. Unfortunately, those topics sounded very much just a copy-paste from the ´to do list´ of perspectives usually associated with the liberal American Judaism. 

Fortunately, there are other complex layers that do make the story interesting in the end, both from the specific Jewish character(s) of the book and for the character and narrative development in general. For instance, the diversity of Israel, and the various accepted degrees of observance, as well as a glimpse into the everyday life which is much normal than we may see it portrayed in the media. Additionally, trying to integrate a non-religious Jewish experience as an identity mark, may also bring a diverse view on being Jewish, although this resonates with a certain American experience of it. Antisemitism in the classroom, although gently put in the book, is nevertheless present at a certain extent.

Moreover, the characters, especially Tally and her brother, are experiencing complex situations, dealing with the loss of a dear friend and the survivor´s complex, as well as panic attacks. Therefore, there is already created a net of circumstances the characters are part thereof and most often should find themselves a solution, even though temporarily. From this perspective, the book has a solid coordinated structure.

Once More with Chutzpah is an interesting YA novel with a Jewish topic, although the Jewish part is liberally approached. On one hand it matches a certain experience of Jewish teens in interreligious families, on the other hand, it offers a story with relatable young characters requested to find their own pattern of reaction in situations common to their age and experience. Looking forward to explore more Jewish YA characters, hopefully soon.

Rating: 3.5 stars