The Chosen

I first read this book for high school English class, so this pick comes to us courtesy of Ms. Ryan,or possibly the school district. Chaim Potok's the Chosen tells the story of two 15 year old Jewish boys, Danny the son of Hassidic Rabbi and Reuven, an Orthodox Jew, who's father has a growing interest in Zionism. The boys meet in a fluke accident and become friends against the backdrop of World War II and its aftermath. Their relationship with their fathers and each other highlight the ushering in of a new era, both in their lives and in the Jewish faith. Even being "forced" to read it, most of our class ended up loving this beautifully written book, which is a high compliment indeed from a bunch of crabby teenagers. There is also a sequel, The Promise.