Plot Summary

Davita's Harp

Chaim Potok
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Davita's Harp

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985

Book Brief

Chaim Potok

Davita's Harp

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1985
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1930s

Publication Year

1985

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

750L

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Super Short Summary

Davita’s Harp by Chaim Potok follows the journey of Davita Chandal, a young girl in 1930s New York City, who is raised by her pragmatic, Communist parents. As Davita searches for stability amid societal upheaval and personal loss, she turns to Judaism for a sense of belonging, eventually embracing traditional practices despite her family's objections. Through Davita's experiences, the novel delves into themes of religious freedom, resilience, and identity. The novel includes references to war and political persecution.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Inspirational

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.3

6,939 ratings

75%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Davita's Harp by Chaim Potok presents a rich narrative exploring themes of faith, identity, and resilience through the eyes of a young Jewish girl in Depression-era America. Reviews praise its deep character development and thought-provoking prose. However, some find its pacing slow and the plot occasionally meandering. Overall, it is regarded as a poignant and meaningful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Davita's Harp?

A reader who enjoys Davita's Harp by Chaim Potok is likely drawn to deeply emotional, character-driven narratives that explore complex themes of faith, identity, and cultural conflict. Fans of My Name is Asher Lev or The Chosen, also by Potok, or Alice Walker’s The Color Purple, will find similar depth and poignancy.

4.3

6,939 ratings

75%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1930s

Publication Year

1985

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

750L

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