A quick but engrossing read. The story of Yankel, his family, and community, his thoughts, reasoning, doubts enables Kane to ambitiously portray the many facets of Judaism without being tedious, stodgy, or pedantic.

Rabbi, Rabbi describes the 3 main branches of Judaism as Orthodoxy, Conservative, and Reform; the complexities of how they differ, and view each other, and the sub-groups within each branch. More importantly is Yankel's keen perception and observation of everyone he meets in Brooklyn, or in his classes at university, or at social gatherings. He can see the petty agendas, alarming misconceptions, and inviolable intolerance in his family, community, and the many rabbis he meets in synagogues, or as his teachers, to anything or anyone who disagrees with or challenges them.

His perceptions and his intelligence drive Yankel to make independent decisions about his life, and not follow what is expected of him by his parents and community. But it doesn’t come easily to a normally compliant young man.

A very good read with lots to think about. Hard to put book down.