Reuven Fenton’s “Goyhood” is a compelling novel that explores themes of identity, family relationships, and religious discovery, providing readers with a thought-provoking and emotionally engaging coming-of-age story.

Synopsis

Reuven Fenton’s debut novel, “Goyhood,” follows Mayer Belkin, a devout Orthodox Jewish man who discovers he’s not actually Jewish and embarks on a road trip to confront his identity crisis, reminiscent of Chaim Potok’s “The Chosen” meets “Planes, Trains and Automobiles.”

After leaving small-town Georgia for Brooklyn and building a new life as a Talmud scholar, Mayer’s world is rocked by the revelation that he and his twin brother aren’t Jewish. Traumatized, Mayer decides to convert, but faces a week-long wait for the process. In the meantime, he and his brother embark on a surreal journey through America’s Deep South with their mother’s ashes, joined by an Instagram influencer named Charlayne Valentine and a one-eyed dog named Popeye. As they navigate bizarre adventures, Mayer grapples with feelings of betrayal by God and his wife’s unawareness of his true identity.

Review

“Reuven Fenton’s novel, titled ‘Goyhood,’ showcases a remarkable twist on the conventional coming-of-age narrative, drawing readers in from the very first page.

From the outset, Fenton’s storytelling prowess shines through, as he expertly crafts a prologue that hooks readers with its catchy and engaging tone. As the narrative unfolds, Fenton’s meticulous attention to detail becomes evident, painting a vivid picture of Marty and David’s hometown and immersing readers fully in their world. Although it may take a moment to connect the dots between Marty and Mayer in the opening chapters, once readers make this connection, they are quickly drawn into the heart of the story.

Central to the novel’s allure are its richly developed characters, particularly Marty/Mayer, David, and Ida Mae. Each character is imbued with depth and complexity, complete with their own unique personalities and flaws. Despite their imperfections, readers will find themselves deeply invested in their struggles and triumphs, rooting for them every step of the way.

One of the novel’s greatest strengths lies in its authentic portrayal of relationships. The dynamic between the brothers, in particular, resonates with a sense of both poignancy and hope, offering a window into the complexities of sibling bonds. Similarly, the interactions between Marty/Mayer and his wife, Sarah, provide fascinating insights into their relationship, leaving readers eager to uncover the mysteries of their past. Fenton’s distinct take on the coming-of-age genre, as well as exploring Jewish culture and traditions, also sets the novel apart and offers readers an engaging and enlightening experience.

In terms of dialogue, Fenton strikes a perfect balance between dialogue and narrative, effectively deepening readers’ understanding of the characters and their motivations. Standout moments, such as Sarah’s response to Mayer’s inquiries about Shuey and the fertility doctor, add layers of complexity to the story, leaving readers hungry for more.

The editing of “Goyhood” is exemplary. The polished prose enhances the overall quality of the novel and ensures a seamless journey for readers. The novel excels in its emotional impact, drawing readers into the lives of the characters and their struggles. Fenton’s ability to evoke genuine empathy and connection underscores the depth of the story, leaving a lasting impression on readers. Fenton’s writing style is both compelling and evocative, drawing readers into the story with vivid imagery and emotive prose.

While “Goyhood” is impeccably edited, some readers may find certain Hebrew references challenging to understand, detracting from the overall reading experience. Providing more context or explanations for these references could enhance reader comprehension. The strength of “Goyhood” lies in its masterful storytelling, complex characters, and exploration of universal themes.

While the pacing of the story is generally well-executed, with smooth transitions between scenes, some readers may find themselves longing for deeper exploration of David’s character. However, this minor quibble does little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the narrative.

Overall, Fenton’s ability to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with readers elevates the novel and makes it a standout addition to the coming-of-age genre. “Goyhood” is suitable for young adults and older readers interested in coming-of-age stories that explore themes of self-discovery, kinship, and faith. While readers from Jewish backgrounds may particularly appreciate the cultural insights, the novel offers universal themes that appeal to a diverse audience.

About the Author

Since 2007, Reuven Fenton has been a well-known name in breaking news journalism at the New York Post. He has received recognition nationwide for his exclusive coverage of important stories. Fenton holds degrees from Yeshiva University and Columbia University School of Journalism. His first foray into fiction, “Goyhood,” showcases his entry into the world of storytelling.

Book Details

• Title: Goyhood
• Author: Reuven Fenton
• Genre: Contemporary adult fiction
• Theme: Jewish, coming-of-age
• Publication Date: May 28, 2024
• Publisher: Central Avenue
• ISBN or ASIN: 978-1771683685
• Number of Pages: 288
• Minimum Audience Age: 22

Book Themes

(Note: 0=none, 1=a few, 2=considerable, 3=pronounced, 4=excessive)

• Sexual themes: 1
• Religious themes: 3
• Violence, self-harm, etc.: 1
• Crude language, expletives, swearing, etc.: 1
• Other adult themes: 1

Rating

• Content: 5 stars
• Writing Style: 4 stars
• Appeal to Target Audience: 4 stars
• Uniqueness: 5 stars
• Editing: 5 stars
• Other factors: 5 stars
• Overall: 4.7 out of 5

Links

• View the book on Goodreads
• View the book on Amazon
• View the book on Simon and Schuster
• View the book on Angus & Robertson

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