Cory J. Schulman's A Postcard From Jerusalem takes readers on a transformative journey through the eyes of a group of Jewish teenagers exploring Israel. As they navigate ancient sites, breathtaking landscapes, and the complexities of their own identities, Schulman weaves a captivating narrative that resonates with readers of all backgrounds. At the heart of the story lies a poignant exploration of identity and belonging. As the characters grapple with their Jewish heritage and the allure of their homeland, they confront universal themes of self-discovery and purpose. Schulman deftly captures the inner turmoil and external challenges faced by the teenagers, inviting readers to join them on a quest for understanding and meaning. Beyond its captivating storyline, A Postcard From Jerusalem serves as a catalyst for introspection and dialogue. Schulman's portrayal of the teenagers' journey prompts readers to reflect on their own identities, beliefs, and values. Whether Jewish or not, readers will find themselves drawn into the universal quest for meaning and connection.
The storytelling here blends the universal—young people seeking connection with each other, the world, and their culture and ancestors—with the particular concerns and challenges facing American Jews in Israel. Living for three weeks with a family in Jerusalem, Isaac concludes that Uri, a young Israeli soon headed into the IDF, thinks of him as “a child, spoiled with too many toys, like a car and a terror-free future.”
With touchingly open minds, the young people discuss the roots of Middle Eastern conflict, whether one can be Jewish without being religious (Isaac, who has not had a bar mitzvah, notes that when a Hitler targets Jews “you best run, escape, fight back” regardless “what your self-perception is”), how best they can contribute to the security of the nation, and so much more. Schulman (author of The Writer's Story) never settles for easy answers, and his young people find their own paths, through these colloquies and through life itself, with persuasive realism. A romantic subplot dominates the first chapter, as Isaac vows, tackily, “I must have her” while marveling at how comely Ahava’s face “relinquish[es] all need for makeup.” Their connection proves bittersweet and touchingly complex, though the novella proves more of a coming-of-age travelogue than a love story.
Takeaway: Thoughtful novel of teens’ touching self-discovery on a tour of Israel.
Comparable Titles: Leonard Saxe and Barry Chazan’s Ten Days of Birthright Israel, Haley Neil’s Once More with Chutzpah.
Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: A-
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A-
