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80 pages 2 hours read

Fiddler on the Roof

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1964

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Book Brief

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Joseph Stein, Sheldon Harnick, Jerry Bock

Fiddler on the Roof

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1964
Book Details
Pages

70

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Anatevka, Russia • 1900s

Topic
Publication Year

1964

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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Super Short Summary

Fiddler on the Roof follows Tevye, a poor dairy farmer in the fictional Russian shtetl of Anatevka, as he navigates the challenges posed by his three oldest daughters who wish to marry for love, defying Jewish tradition. Amidst their personal journeys, the Tsar's increasing persecution of Jews disrupts village life, leading to the community's forced displacement and highlighting themes of tradition, resistance, and perseverance.

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Nostalgic

Heartwarming

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

4.1

16,134 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Fiddler on the Roof by Joseph Stein, Sheldon Harnick, and Jerry Bock skillfully blends humor and poignant social commentary through its enduring story of tradition and change. Its music and characters are memorable, though some critics find its pacing uneven and its portrayal of cultural issues somewhat simplistic. Overall, it remains a significant and touching work in musical theater.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Fiddler on the Roof?

Fans of time-honored musical theater and poignant narratives exploring Jewish traditions will cherish Fiddler on the Roof by Joseph Stein, Sheldon Harnick, and Jerry Bock. Comparable to readers of Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl and lovers of The Sound of Music for its cultural depth and emotional resonance.

4.1

16,134 ratings

79%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

Tevye

The protagonist, Tevye is a dairy farmer who values tradition and grapples with the changing approaches to marriage brought by his daughters.

Tevye’s wife, Golde is a practical and assertive partner who helps run the household and navigates the challenges of family traditions.

The oldest daughter, Tzeitel paves the way for her sisters by choosing love over traditional arranged marriages.

The second-oldest daughter, Hodel is intelligent and outspoken, valuing her personal convictions and social change.

The middle daughter, Chava enjoys reading and eventually seeks a path outside of tradition.

The second-youngest daughter, Shprintze is still a child, influenced by her family and the teachings she hears.

The youngest daughter, Bielke is also a child who looks forward to new experiences and adventures.

The village matchmaker, Yente is a traditionalist who takes pride in arranging marriages within the community.

A poor but kind tailor, Motel is Tzeitel's love interest, known for his shy demeanor and dreams of a new sewing machine.

A poor, idealistic student from Kiev, Perchik believes in change and social justice, challenging traditional roles.

The wealthy village butcher, Lazar shows interest in marrying Tzeitel and is older than she is.

Mordcha is the village innkeeper who is involved in the community's social scenes, including weddings.

The spiritual leader of Anatevka, renowned for his wisdom and respected by the villagers.

The Rabbi’s son, Mendel is more rigid in his views and often critiques the actions of others in the village.

The village bookseller, Avram keeps the villagers informed of regional news and participates in local gossip.

The village beggar, Nachum is a familiar presence, reminding villagers of roles within the community.

Golde’s grandmother, who plays a memorable part in a dream described by Tevye.

Lazar Wolf’s deceased first wife, who features prominently in a dream sequence.

A Russian officer who has a semblance of friendship with Tevye but is bound by official duties.

A Russian Christian, Fyedka connects with Chava over a shared interest in literature.

Motel’s mother, who supports her son’s choices and unconventional marriage path.

A symbolic presence throughout the story, representing the balance and precariousness of Jewish life.

Book Details
Pages

70

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

Anatevka, Russia • 1900s

Topic
Publication Year

1964

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

12+ years

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