36 pages • 1 hour read
272
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Brooklyn, New York • 2000s
2012
Adult
16+ years
Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots by Deborah Feldman is a memoir about her upbringing in the insular Satmar Hasidic Jewish community in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Raised by her grandparents due to her mother's departure and her father's mental health struggles, Feldman secretly reads English books and questions her community's strict traditions. At 17, she enters an arranged marriage but faces significant marital challenges. After moving to Airmont and having a son, she ultimately leaves the Hasidic community to find her true self. The account involves themes related to restrictive religious practices and challenges within personal relationships.
Emotional
Inspirational
Challenging
Mysterious
Contemplative
78,626 ratings
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Deborah Feldman's Unorthodox is widely praised for its courageous and insightful portrayal of her escape from a restrictive Hasidic community. Reviewers appreciate the raw, honest storytelling and emotional depth. However, some criticize it for perceived embellishments and a disjointed narrative. Overall, it provides a compelling look into a cloistered world.
Readers who would enjoy Unorthodox by Deborah Feldman are typically drawn to memoirs about self-discovery, cultural rebellion, and personal transformation. Fans of Tara Westover’s Educated and Jeannette Walls’ The Glass Castle will appreciate Feldman’s insight into breaking free from rigid, oppressive environments.
78,626 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
272
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Brooklyn, New York • 2000s
2012
Adult
16+ years
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