Publisher: Central Avenue

Publication Date: May 28, 2024

Length: 288 pages

I received this book from the author for an honest review.

So, I know this book has an unusual title. It is about a devout Jewish scholar and his brother facing major life events. I am not Jewish so it would seem like an odd book for me to review but I love books that teach me new things or challenge me. This one fits that criteria. Also, it is a fun book to read. If you are unsure of any Jewish terms, Google is always there to help.

Marty Belkin is growing up in a small town in Georgia. He and his twin brother David live with their mother. The boys notice a strange, new item in one of the yards in town. They aren’t sure what it is and wonder why it would be in someone’s front yard. When the boys return home later in the day they find their mother talking to a man they don’t recognize. She introduces the boys to the new rabbi in town. She mentions that she and the boys are Jewish. The boys are stunned since religion has never been mentioned to them.

David and Marty begin instruction in the Jewish faith with the new rabbi. Marty is an excellent student and his scholarly abilities lead him to an opportunity to move to Brooklyn to continue his studies. Fifteen years pass as Marty, now called Mayer, is deeply ensconced in the Jewish community as a Talmud scholar. He receives a call from his brother asking him to return to Georgia to help with their mother’s funeral. After arriving in Georgia, Mayer and his twin brother David learn that they are not Jewish. Their mother lied and never could figure out how to explain her lie to the boys. Mayer/Marty has devoted his life to studying the Talmud. He is married to a famous Jewish leader. How will he explain this to his wife? There is only one thing to do. Marty needs to convert to Judaism. A special rabbi will need to perform the ceremony, it will be a week before it is possible.

Seizing this opportunity to reconnect with his brother, David decides to take Marty on a trip. David believes that Marty should see what southern living is all about. During the trip, Marty is exposed to sights he could never have imagined. The brothers seem to find unusual experiences at every turn. During the craziness, Marty finds himself questioning his faith. Why had God put this obstacle in his life? Didn’t his devotion mean anything? Marty wonders if God is testing him for some reason. As he ponders these questions, his brother David continues encouraging Marty to try the things that would be forbidden if Marty were truly Jewish. Will Marty change? Their trip through the South is one of discovery and clarification.

Reuven Fenton’s Goyhood is a delight to read. The imagery and description of the brothers’s trip paints a vivid picture of two brothers long overdue to reconnect. When Marty loses his identity as a Jew, he is shattered. It is fascinating to see Marty’s strong adherence to Jewish law despite not being Jewish. He wouldn’t have to follow Jewish law and tradition until he officially converts but Marty continues practicing his faith. His strength of conviction pulls him from his spiritual confusion and helps him realize that life continues. He does miss his brother. Both boys see their mother’s death not as a crossroads but more as a pause allowing them to appreciate and continue their lives. The restoration of the brotherly bond is heartwarming, and a wonderful conclusion. I recommend this book.

My Rating: 🌻🌻🌻🌻/5