46 pages • 1 hour read
Joshua CohenThe Netanyahus: An Account of a Minor and Ultimately Even Negligible Episode in the History of a Very Famous Family
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In The Netanyahus by Joshua Cohen, history professor Ruben Blum narrates his experience hosting Ben-Zion Netanyahu and his family in Corbin University while dealing with his own familial and cultural conflicts. The chaos following the Netanyahus' arrival, combined with Blum's struggles regarding his Jewish identity and his daughter's desire for cosmetic surgery, culminates in a series of events reflecting on Jewish history and identity. The novel concludes with reflections on the characters' futures and the source of the story from Harold Bloom. The book includes references to ethnic and religious identity struggles, family conflict, and academic politics.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Netanyahus by Joshua Cohen has garnered praise for its inventive narrative and sharp wit, blending history with fiction in a unique manner. Critics highlight Cohen's insightful commentary on identity and academia. However, some feel the dense prose and intricate references may alienate casual readers. Overall, it's a thought-provoking, albeit challenging, read.
Who Should Read The Netanyahus?
A reader who enjoys The Netanyahus by Joshua Cohen is likely interested in intellectually stimulating narratives that mix historical fiction with satire. Comparable to Saul Bellow's Herzog and Philip Roth's The Plot Against America, they appreciate complex characters, sharp wit, and nuanced explorations of Jewish identity and politics.