The Reformer's Apprentice: A Novel of Old San Francisco

Rating:
Summary: Pioneer Jews
Review: Although the plot is somewhat hokey, it is refreshing to see a novel centering around a strong Jewish woman in the 1800's. Although the basis for the story (Jewish girl needs to chose between her parent's culture or making a new life for herself with the man she loves) is intriguing, the writing falls flat. The characters aren't quite one dimensional, but do seem a bit cardboard. All in all, a fine read for an afternoon by the pool, but nothing for posterity.

Rating:
Summary: Should reclassify as Young Adult book
Review: I'm about half way through this book now, and I've found myself checking the binding several times to see if it has a YA (Young Adult) sticker. I'm in a mother-daughter book group and this book reads like something we would read there - geared for a younger audience. I was immediately attracted to the book in the library since I live in SF, am Jewish and love reading about the late 1800's/early 1900's. Unless the book gets somehow inappropriate later on, I'll recommend it to my 11 year old. So, while the subject matter is interesting, there doesn't seem to be the depth that I'd expect.