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42 pages 1 hour read

Jews Without Money

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1930

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Book Brief

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Michael Gold

Jews Without Money

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1930
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1910s

Publication Year

1930

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Jews Without Money by Michael Gold, set in the early 20th century Lower East Side of New York City, follows Mike, a boy growing up in a Jewish immigrant family struggling with poverty and hardship in a tenement. His experiences in this crime-ridden, impoverished neighborhood, surrounded by a supportive yet exploited community, shape his views and inspire his later socialist beliefs.

Gritty

Dark

Challenging

Emotional

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,092 ratings

70%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jews Without Money by Michael Gold is praised for its gripping portrayal of poverty and immigrant life in early 20th-century New York, with vivid characters and rich detail. However, some criticize its heavy-handed political commentary and melodramatic tone. Overall, the novel remains a significant, emotionally impactful depiction of its era.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Jews Without Money?

A reader who would enjoy Jews Without Money by Michael Gold is someone interested in early 20th-century immigrant life in America, social realism, and labor history. Fans of works like The Jungle by Upton Sinclair and Call It Sleep by Henry Roth will find Gold's depiction of poverty and resilience in New York's Jewish Lower East Side compelling.

4.2

1,092 ratings

70%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Character List

Mike Gold

The central character who serves as the protagonist and narrator, charting his experiences as a young boy growing up in poverty on New York’s Lower East Side. He is the focal point for understanding the struggles faced by his community.

Mike’s father, an immigrant from Romania with dreams of wealth, whose aspirations are continually thwarted by the harsh realities of life in America. He embodies the challenges faced by those seeking success in a new country.

Mike’s mother, a pragmatic and strong-willed woman who focuses on the necessities of life and supports her family with determination and generosity. Her actions provide an example of practical resilience amidst difficulties.

Mike’s sister, who embodies innocence and optimism, finding solace in fairy tales and working tirelessly to support her family. Her presence underscores the contrasting ways family members cope with their circumstances.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • 1910s

Publication Year

1930

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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