46 pages • 1 hour read
Joshua CohenA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
248
Novel • Fiction
Upstate New York • Late 1950s
2021
Adult
18+ years
In The Netanyahus by Joshua Cohen, history professor Ruben Blum narrates his experience hosting Ben-Zion Netanyahu and his family in Corbin University while dealing with his own familial and cultural conflicts. The chaos following the Netanyahus' arrival, combined with Blum's struggles regarding his Jewish identity and his daughter's desire for cosmetic surgery, culminates in a series of events reflecting on Jewish history and identity. The novel concludes with reflections on the characters' futures and the source of the story from Harold Bloom. The book includes references to ethnic and religious identity struggles, family conflict, and academic politics.
Humorous
Contemplative
Informative
Bittersweet
Mysterious
17,730 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Netanyahus by Joshua Cohen has garnered praise for its inventive narrative and sharp wit, blending history with fiction in a unique manner. Critics highlight Cohen's insightful commentary on identity and academia. However, some feel the dense prose and intricate references may alienate casual readers. Overall, it's a thought-provoking, albeit challenging, read.
A reader who enjoys The Netanyahus by Joshua Cohen is likely interested in intellectually stimulating narratives that mix historical fiction with satire. Comparable to Saul Bellow's Herzog and Philip Roth's The Plot Against America, they appreciate complex characters, sharp wit, and nuanced explorations of Jewish identity and politics.
17,730 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
248
Novel • Fiction
Upstate New York • Late 1950s
2021
Adult
18+ years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.