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Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Rabbi's Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging
From the first Asian American to be ordained as a rabbi, a stirring account of one woman’s journey from feeling like an outsider to becoming one of the most admired religious leaders in the world
Angela Buchdahl was born in Korea and grew up in Tacoma, Washington, the daughter of a Korean Buddhist mother and Jewish American father. Profoundly spiritual from a young age, felt a connection to God when only a child and felt the first stirrings to become a rabbi at age sixteen. Despite the naysayers and periods of self-doubt—would a mixed-race woman ever be seen as authentically Jewish and entitled to lead a congregation—she stayed the course, which took her first to Yale, then to rabbinical school, cantorial school, and finally to the pulpit of one of the largest, most influential congregations in the world.
Today, Angela Buchdahl is revered by Jews and non-Jews alike for her invigorating, joyful approach to worship, and her belief in the power of faith, gratitude, and responsibility for each other, regardless of religion. She does not shy away from challenging topics, be it racism within the Jewish community to sexism she confronted when she aspired to the top job. Buchdahl has also been a sought-after leader and voice through some of the most challenging moments in recent history, from the murder of George Floyd to the hostage standoff in Colleyville, Texas to the horrors of October 7th. Buchdahl's consistent message is that it is up to us to strive for a world of more humanity, especially in today’s challenging times.
Angela Buchdahl has gone from outsider to officiant, from feeling estranged to feeling embraced—and she's emerged with a deep feeling of being bound to a larger whole and mission. Here, she has written a book that is both a memoir and a spiritual guide for everyday living, which is exactly what so many of us crave right now.
Angela Buchdahl was born in Korea and grew up in Tacoma, Washington, the daughter of a Korean Buddhist mother and Jewish American father. Profoundly spiritual from a young age, felt a connection to God when only a child and felt the first stirrings to become a rabbi at age sixteen. Despite the naysayers and periods of self-doubt—would a mixed-race woman ever be seen as authentically Jewish and entitled to lead a congregation—she stayed the course, which took her first to Yale, then to rabbinical school, cantorial school, and finally to the pulpit of one of the largest, most influential congregations in the world.
Today, Angela Buchdahl is revered by Jews and non-Jews alike for her invigorating, joyful approach to worship, and her belief in the power of faith, gratitude, and responsibility for each other, regardless of religion. She does not shy away from challenging topics, be it racism within the Jewish community to sexism she confronted when she aspired to the top job. Buchdahl has also been a sought-after leader and voice through some of the most challenging moments in recent history, from the murder of George Floyd to the hostage standoff in Colleyville, Texas to the horrors of October 7th. Buchdahl's consistent message is that it is up to us to strive for a world of more humanity, especially in today’s challenging times.
Angela Buchdahl has gone from outsider to officiant, from feeling estranged to feeling embraced—and she's emerged with a deep feeling of being bound to a larger whole and mission. Here, she has written a book that is both a memoir and a spiritual guide for everyday living, which is exactly what so many of us crave right now.
352 pages, Hardcover
Published October 21, 2025
573 people are currently reading
3153 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
November 8, 2025
5.0
The first Asian-American female to be ordained as a Rabbi. Angela now resides in NYC, heading up a very large congregation. She was born in Seoul, the daughter of a Korean Buddhist mother and Jewish American father.
The feeling of not belonging comes in a package. Self-doubt, anxiety, loneliness and the like are major struggles- until you beat it, which she did, but it was far from a walk in the park.
This book is terrific. She is quite spiritual, yet so down to earth.
Angela is a force to be reckoned with- in the best way.
I met her by chance and am totally impressed by her character.
The first Asian-American female to be ordained as a Rabbi. Angela now resides in NYC, heading up a very large congregation. She was born in Seoul, the daughter of a Korean Buddhist mother and Jewish American father.
The feeling of not belonging comes in a package. Self-doubt, anxiety, loneliness and the like are major struggles- until you beat it, which she did, but it was far from a walk in the park.
This book is terrific. She is quite spiritual, yet so down to earth.
Angela is a force to be reckoned with- in the best way.
I met her by chance and am totally impressed by her character.
August 2, 2025
Can’t say I’m totally objective. But I loved this book. :)
October 28, 2025
So inspirational that demonstrates how perseverance and passion can lead to spiritual success! I really enjoyed hearing the journey of this famous rabbi who overcame many obstacles to help an inordinate amount of people. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
October 22, 2025
Absolutely fantastic book. I watch Central Synagogue’s Shabbos services on YouTube every Friday night and Saturday mornings. Their services have renewed my faith!
I have to say that if you have the opportunity to listen to the audiobook, it is wonderful! You can hear the Rabbi singing on this. Also, if you look up “Central Synagogue” on Apple Music, there is a beautiful album there!
I have to say that if you have the opportunity to listen to the audiobook, it is wonderful! You can hear the Rabbi singing on this. Also, if you look up “Central Synagogue” on Apple Music, there is a beautiful album there!
August 31, 2025
In Heart of a Stranger, Rabbi Angela Buchdahl shares her inspiring journey growing up as a half-Jewish, half-Korean immigrant to the United States. The book traces her upbringing, education and ascent to becoming one of the most respected rabbis in the world. With honesty and candor, Rabbi Buchdahl shares her experiences of being treated like an outsider in the Jewish community throughout her life and how she is now an outspoken advocate for inclusion and acceptance in the Jewish community. This book is more than just a memoir. After each chapter, Rabbi Buchdahl includes a short chapter with lessons on Jewish texts and practice. I really enjoyed reading the hybrid of personal experiences and teachings.
On social media, Rabbi Buchdahl has shared that the audio version of this book, which will be released in October 2025, will include her signing songs that "illustrate the narrative". I cannot wait to experience this book a second time when the audio version is released in several weeks.
Thank you to NetGalley and Viking Penguin for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
On social media, Rabbi Buchdahl has shared that the audio version of this book, which will be released in October 2025, will include her signing songs that "illustrate the narrative". I cannot wait to experience this book a second time when the audio version is released in several weeks.
Thank you to NetGalley and Viking Penguin for an advanced reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 22, 2025
I loved this book. I learned a lot and loved the explanations at the end of every chapter.
October 29, 2025
Happy Pub week!
Heart of a Stranger is the gift that the world needs right now. None of my words could possibly do justice to the beautiful prose and deeply thought out ideas that Rabbi Angela Buchdahl sets out in her memoir. The book traces her time as an Asian American Jew in Tacoma Washington through to her role leading Central Synagogue in Manhattan.
Along the way, Buchdahl faces prejudice within and outside the Jewish community - for being a Jew of colour, for growing up as a Jew in a new-Jewish community, for being born to a Korean American mother when most Jews trace lineage matrilineally not patrilineally, for being a woman daring to dream she can lead a congregation while raising her children, for not being "Jewish" enough during her cantorial and rabbinical studies. And if those spiritual tests were not enough, Buchdahl is party to a terrifying role in a hostage situation, must learn to lead her congregation through prayers and life cycle events during the global pandemic, and has to offer her congregation comfort and wisdom in the face of the upheaval caused to the Jewish community and the world as a result of the October 7 2023 massacre.
Rabbi Buchdahl offers much to savour and ponder - she explains what all faiths share and how we can work together to make a better world. And she reminds us that "Judaism is not just something you're given. It's something you choose." This memoir makes me proud to "choose" my Judaism over and over.
Heart of a Stranger is the gift that the world needs right now. None of my words could possibly do justice to the beautiful prose and deeply thought out ideas that Rabbi Angela Buchdahl sets out in her memoir. The book traces her time as an Asian American Jew in Tacoma Washington through to her role leading Central Synagogue in Manhattan.
Along the way, Buchdahl faces prejudice within and outside the Jewish community - for being a Jew of colour, for growing up as a Jew in a new-Jewish community, for being born to a Korean American mother when most Jews trace lineage matrilineally not patrilineally, for being a woman daring to dream she can lead a congregation while raising her children, for not being "Jewish" enough during her cantorial and rabbinical studies. And if those spiritual tests were not enough, Buchdahl is party to a terrifying role in a hostage situation, must learn to lead her congregation through prayers and life cycle events during the global pandemic, and has to offer her congregation comfort and wisdom in the face of the upheaval caused to the Jewish community and the world as a result of the October 7 2023 massacre.
Rabbi Buchdahl offers much to savour and ponder - she explains what all faiths share and how we can work together to make a better world. And she reminds us that "Judaism is not just something you're given. It's something you choose." This memoir makes me proud to "choose" my Judaism over and over.
October 21, 2025
An incredible book start to finish!
November 25, 2025
This book recounts Rabbi Buchdahl's "unlikely story" with grace—and Torah insights at the conclusion of each chapter. It's a personal/familial history as well as a chronicle of social and cultural changes over the last quarter of the 20th century and the first quarter of this one.
September 22, 2025
Beautifully written, Angela Buchdahl transcends her thoughts and convictions deep within her heart, mind and soul.
She is a remarkable leader; the first Asian American to be ordained as a rabbi. With a Buddhist mother from Korea and a Jewish father from Tacoma, Washington, her adventurous journey has shaped her vision.
Angela Buchdahl came to the US at age five and was raised in the beautiful Northwest with picnics at the majestic Mt. Rainier. She played the flute and achieved high marks in high school. With a strong religious background, it opened her mind to becoming a spiritual teacher.
It's not a surprise that she now has a huge following. In the midst of a world full of fear and anger, Angela Buchdahl, has a strong sense of calmness. She said when people are fearful, they should never let this emotion win. It’s a choice; we are always in control of fear. She goes on to say that every one of life’s events have something to teach us. She talks about the power of love, honor, trust and faith. And there’s a great deal more.
Her life has been full of challenges and hopes for a better world for us all. It makes you envious of those who are close by to hear her sermons. Yet, this memoir is awe-inspiring with words that are powerful and unforgettable.
My thanks to Pamela Dorman Books and NetGalley for a copy of this advanced book with an expected release date of October 21, 2025. As always, my opinions are my own.
She is a remarkable leader; the first Asian American to be ordained as a rabbi. With a Buddhist mother from Korea and a Jewish father from Tacoma, Washington, her adventurous journey has shaped her vision.
Angela Buchdahl came to the US at age five and was raised in the beautiful Northwest with picnics at the majestic Mt. Rainier. She played the flute and achieved high marks in high school. With a strong religious background, it opened her mind to becoming a spiritual teacher.
It's not a surprise that she now has a huge following. In the midst of a world full of fear and anger, Angela Buchdahl, has a strong sense of calmness. She said when people are fearful, they should never let this emotion win. It’s a choice; we are always in control of fear. She goes on to say that every one of life’s events have something to teach us. She talks about the power of love, honor, trust and faith. And there’s a great deal more.
Her life has been full of challenges and hopes for a better world for us all. It makes you envious of those who are close by to hear her sermons. Yet, this memoir is awe-inspiring with words that are powerful and unforgettable.
My thanks to Pamela Dorman Books and NetGalley for a copy of this advanced book with an expected release date of October 21, 2025. As always, my opinions are my own.
July 15, 2025
Fantastic book! I can't say enough about how Angela Buchahl so beautifully captures the tension of identities and moments in time. Her writing is accessible and beautiful, and I am SO GRATEFUL to have been given this advance uncorrected copy to read. I can't wait for the rest of the world to enjoy it too!
December 20, 2025
Refreshing. Beautiful. Hearing the first Asian American Woman Rabbi speak about Faith and Community. It is inspiring. She was always striving for a feeling of belonging since her mother was from Korea and Buddhist and her Father was an American Jew. Her parents met, married, and lived in Korea, where Angela and her sister were born. Several years later, her mother thinks it’s best they move to the United States since children of a Korean and American were looked down upon. Yet, Angela always felt a deep infinitely to Judaism and identified as a Jew her entire life. So, began her journey.
She has such a wonderful way of looking at the world and her role in it and as a Rabbi. There is not one religion, one idea, one way that is exclusively right. She conveys the meaning of being a Reformed Jewish Rabbi, yet acknowledging this role is always a work in progress. She makes mistakes, she thinks ideas of tradition and change through, she challenges the status quo, and thinks the goal is to always put others first. She is a humble person, serving to the best of her abilities.
Originally, heard Angela Buchdahl speak about this book on Buzz Books Non-Fiction Segment. Idea that being one, means we are all collectively part of the world and inter-connected. Instead, of making you feel alone, it reminds you of how you matter as each and every creature does as well.
Love: Think about True Patience. It’s Noticing who might be carrying a burden and taking some of the weight. We Remind them that they are not sitting alone on the Bench.
The World needs more people like Pastor Angela Buchdahl. I loved reading this book and learned so much about perspective and taking a strong, yet gentle approach. It changed my heart.
Thank you NetGalley and Pamela Dorman Books for granting me a copy of this book. I always leave reviews of books I read.
She has such a wonderful way of looking at the world and her role in it and as a Rabbi. There is not one religion, one idea, one way that is exclusively right. She conveys the meaning of being a Reformed Jewish Rabbi, yet acknowledging this role is always a work in progress. She makes mistakes, she thinks ideas of tradition and change through, she challenges the status quo, and thinks the goal is to always put others first. She is a humble person, serving to the best of her abilities.
Originally, heard Angela Buchdahl speak about this book on Buzz Books Non-Fiction Segment. Idea that being one, means we are all collectively part of the world and inter-connected. Instead, of making you feel alone, it reminds you of how you matter as each and every creature does as well.
Love: Think about True Patience. It’s Noticing who might be carrying a burden and taking some of the weight. We Remind them that they are not sitting alone on the Bench.
The World needs more people like Pastor Angela Buchdahl. I loved reading this book and learned so much about perspective and taking a strong, yet gentle approach. It changed my heart.
Thank you NetGalley and Pamela Dorman Books for granting me a copy of this book. I always leave reviews of books I read.
November 25, 2025
Heart of a stranger, soul of a family
When you feel like a stranger, open your arms and share who you are. As Rabbi Angela Buchdahl tells her story, she welcomes us into her world. We sample the sounds, sights, and flavors of growing up in Seoul, Korea and Tacoma, Washington. We meet Rabbi’s family; they become our own. We become one with Mt. Rainier as her Korean Buddhist mother taught her to do when she first climbed it with her family and gazed with awe at the stunning scenery surrounding and below. This early lesson in one people, one world, resonates throughout the book. It is one of the most important truths we can actualize today.
Each chapter alternates with an interwoven lesson in a “middah”(Jewish core value), concept, or building-block. Each lesson reflects, and braids, Rabbi Buchdahl’s experience to Torah and Talmud. This unique bond bears crystalline relevance; yet each lesson is taught with such clarity that I’ve put *Heart of a Stranger* on my recommended reading list for my conversion students.
To be a Jew is to span more than one truth at a time. Tears sprang to my eyes when Rabbi Buchdahl told of her European Ashkenazic father saying to her, “You are one hundred per cent Korean. You are one hundred per cent Jewish. And you are one hundred per cent American.” My late former husband and I constantly said this to our Seoul-born son after we adopted him. If Harry Shuchat-Marx, né Gim YeDam, cracks just one more book in his life (may it be long and happy!), I hope he picks *Heart of a Stranger,*
When you feel like a stranger, open your arms and share who you are. As Rabbi Angela Buchdahl tells her story, she welcomes us into her world. We sample the sounds, sights, and flavors of growing up in Seoul, Korea and Tacoma, Washington. We meet Rabbi’s family; they become our own. We become one with Mt. Rainier as her Korean Buddhist mother taught her to do when she first climbed it with her family and gazed with awe at the stunning scenery surrounding and below. This early lesson in one people, one world, resonates throughout the book. It is one of the most important truths we can actualize today.
Each chapter alternates with an interwoven lesson in a “middah”(Jewish core value), concept, or building-block. Each lesson reflects, and braids, Rabbi Buchdahl’s experience to Torah and Talmud. This unique bond bears crystalline relevance; yet each lesson is taught with such clarity that I’ve put *Heart of a Stranger* on my recommended reading list for my conversion students.
To be a Jew is to span more than one truth at a time. Tears sprang to my eyes when Rabbi Buchdahl told of her European Ashkenazic father saying to her, “You are one hundred per cent Korean. You are one hundred per cent Jewish. And you are one hundred per cent American.” My late former husband and I constantly said this to our Seoul-born son after we adopted him. If Harry Shuchat-Marx, né Gim YeDam, cracks just one more book in his life (may it be long and happy!), I hope he picks *Heart of a Stranger,*
October 20, 2025
Rabbi Buchdahl, the first Asian American to be ordained as a rabbi, gracefully challenges the belief that Jews are a monolith. Indeed, Jews are much more diverse than the spotlight long held by Orthodox men.
Not knowing much about Rabbi Buchdahl, I really enjoyed the way she her interwove her life story with sidebars of ancient texts. Her warm tone and pragmatic worldview felt learned without being sanctimonious, and made clear she's earned every bit of her Rabbinate.
It is especially difficult these days to be a Progressive Zionist, and Rabbi Buchdahl threaded that needle with the compassion and pragmatism we desperately need in this post-October-7th world.
While I have a Jewish day school diploma and Bat Mitzvah certificate, I describe my level of observance as "disappointing my Ashki Egal Conservative mother by not practicing".
That being said, one of the best parts of being an ethnoreligion is celebrating our tribe's accomplishments regardless of affiliation or observance levels. This book is one such celebration, and it both affirmed and challenged me while feeling like a warm welcome home.
I quite obviously recommend this book to fellow MOT, I also suggest this book to anyone wanting to learn about Judaism from a perspective of multicultural otherness.
"Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Rabbi's Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging" by Angela Buchdahl releases on October 21, 2025.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Effusive thanks to @NetGalley and @VikingBooks for sending this book for review consideration.
All opinions are my own.
Not knowing much about Rabbi Buchdahl, I really enjoyed the way she her interwove her life story with sidebars of ancient texts. Her warm tone and pragmatic worldview felt learned without being sanctimonious, and made clear she's earned every bit of her Rabbinate.
It is especially difficult these days to be a Progressive Zionist, and Rabbi Buchdahl threaded that needle with the compassion and pragmatism we desperately need in this post-October-7th world.
While I have a Jewish day school diploma and Bat Mitzvah certificate, I describe my level of observance as "disappointing my Ashki Egal Conservative mother by not practicing".
That being said, one of the best parts of being an ethnoreligion is celebrating our tribe's accomplishments regardless of affiliation or observance levels. This book is one such celebration, and it both affirmed and challenged me while feeling like a warm welcome home.
I quite obviously recommend this book to fellow MOT, I also suggest this book to anyone wanting to learn about Judaism from a perspective of multicultural otherness.
"Heart of a Stranger: An Unlikely Rabbi's Story of Faith, Identity, and Belonging" by Angela Buchdahl releases on October 21, 2025.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Effusive thanks to @NetGalley and @VikingBooks for sending this book for review consideration.
All opinions are my own.
October 15, 2025
The author of this memoir was born in Korea to a Korean mother and a Jewish father, before her family moved back to Washington state where she became fully enmeshed in Jewish life. Fast forward, and she became not just the first Asian American to be ordained as a rabbi, but then eventually the head rabbi of NYC’s Central Synagogue, one of the largest and most famous synagogues in the world. This book is a fascinating memoir of her life, with each chapter followed by a d’var Torah reflecting on a Hebrew word or theme.
I belong to a wonderful synagogue with a wonderful rabbi, but even we sometimes watch Central Synagogue’s services on tv on the JBS network or on YouTube, whether because we can’t make it in person (I think we first discovered it during the pandemic) or just want a little more Jewish content. So when I heard that Rabbi Buchdal was publishing a memoir, I really wanted to read it because I think she’s a wonderful speaker. And indeed, it was a great book - and even better on audio where she occasionally sings a bit of a prayer or Jewish song. Her life experience as someone who no one ever believed she was Jewish because of her appearance was fascinating, and loved her wise thoughts on Judaism as well. Highly recommend this one to all my Jewish friends, and also to non-Jewish readers interested in both an interesting life story and further insight into what it means to be a Reform Jew.
4.25 stars
Thanks to the publisher for an e-ARC and to Penguin Random House Audio for an e-ALC (out 10/21/25); all opinions are my own.
I belong to a wonderful synagogue with a wonderful rabbi, but even we sometimes watch Central Synagogue’s services on tv on the JBS network or on YouTube, whether because we can’t make it in person (I think we first discovered it during the pandemic) or just want a little more Jewish content. So when I heard that Rabbi Buchdal was publishing a memoir, I really wanted to read it because I think she’s a wonderful speaker. And indeed, it was a great book - and even better on audio where she occasionally sings a bit of a prayer or Jewish song. Her life experience as someone who no one ever believed she was Jewish because of her appearance was fascinating, and loved her wise thoughts on Judaism as well. Highly recommend this one to all my Jewish friends, and also to non-Jewish readers interested in both an interesting life story and further insight into what it means to be a Reform Jew.
4.25 stars
Thanks to the publisher for an e-ARC and to Penguin Random House Audio for an e-ALC (out 10/21/25); all opinions are my own.
December 19, 2025
Listened to audio as author is also a cantor and sings throughout. Amazing, thought-provoking and while I listened to the audio version, I will purchase the book so I can reread passages. Yes. It was THAT terrific.
October 25, 2025
I highly recommend this book - particularly the audio version! It is an amazing story of her life with relatable lessons for all people of all religions or no religion. Very timely in our turbulent times!
November 1, 2025
I had the pleasure of hearing Rabbi Buchdahl speak at the Weitzman center with a couple friends of mine. She was incandescent. Just extraordinary.
I got a free copy of her book with my ticket, but wanted to hear her narration of her own memoir. I’m so glad I chose to listen to her telling of her story. Her speaking voice matches her singing voice in power and resonance. I was deeply moved by her story of continuous search for belonging and her refusal to abandon any facet of her identity. I learned more about Judaism from reading this book, but I also learned about grace and holding space for nuance. I have seen lately some vicious attacks against Rabbi Buchdahl online by Jews, and it deeply saddens me. Attacks from antisemites are one thing but attacks from within our community are difficult to process and understand. I think what I admire most about Rabbi Buchdahl is her transcendent resilience.
Thank you Rabbi Buchdahl for your resonant leadership in this crazy world. Our community is so lucky to have your voice/ singing and speaking :). I truly believe Angela Buchdahl is one of the most relevant and important spiritual leaders of our time and feel grateful to be here now to bear witness.
I got a free copy of her book with my ticket, but wanted to hear her narration of her own memoir. I’m so glad I chose to listen to her telling of her story. Her speaking voice matches her singing voice in power and resonance. I was deeply moved by her story of continuous search for belonging and her refusal to abandon any facet of her identity. I learned more about Judaism from reading this book, but I also learned about grace and holding space for nuance. I have seen lately some vicious attacks against Rabbi Buchdahl online by Jews, and it deeply saddens me. Attacks from antisemites are one thing but attacks from within our community are difficult to process and understand. I think what I admire most about Rabbi Buchdahl is her transcendent resilience.
Thank you Rabbi Buchdahl for your resonant leadership in this crazy world. Our community is so lucky to have your voice/ singing and speaking :). I truly believe Angela Buchdahl is one of the most relevant and important spiritual leaders of our time and feel grateful to be here now to bear witness.
November 10, 2025
Non-Fiction November '25 - Book 5
A wonderfully written memoir.
As I read, I would think 'I cant wait to review', 'I cant wait to hand it to my library patrons'.
As you read, Rabbi Buchdahl takes you thru moments joy, nervousness, and sadness. You might, like me, even experience anger.
A wonderfully written memoir.
As I read, I would think 'I cant wait to review', 'I cant wait to hand it to my library patrons'.
As you read, Rabbi Buchdahl takes you thru moments joy, nervousness, and sadness. You might, like me, even experience anger.
November 22, 2025
I LOVED this book - it was wise, thought-provoking, and inspiring. I highly recommend the audiobook which included her lovely singing.
November 4, 2025
A wonderful memoir of an extraordinary woman
October 29, 2025
I highly recommend listening to this book via audiobook. To hear this story told by Rabbi Angela herself was AMAZING! I loved the snippets of singing throughout.
October 1, 2025
Excellent! I usually avoid rating memoirs because they’re so personal that anything less than five stars feels unfair. But this book is an exception—it genuinely earns its five stars. It is beautifully written and deeply thoughtful, offering not only her unique journey to the Rabbinate but also plenty to reflect on. I highly recommend it.
Thank you to netgalley for providing me with an early release in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you to netgalley for providing me with an early release in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 22, 2025
Angela Buchdahl writes Heart of a Stranger; Angela is the child of a Korean/Buddhist mother and a Jewish father. Raised in the US after the age of five near her father’s family gave her exposure to Judaism and a wonderful community. Judaism and the Rabbinate was her life’s calling and she is now the senior Rabbi at Central Synagogue in New York. She also trained as a Cantor and I had no understanding or appreciation of what that meant so I looked up videos of her singing Kol Nidre and it is astoundingly beautiful… go listen… now. The author shares her life journey openly and vulnerably at many points. The challenges faced because she does not appear Jewish and many other situations she found herself in. I picked the book up primarily because I hoped that she would cover rabbinical training in detail however, she does not but the book is so beautiful and I was so glad I had the opportunity to read it.
#HeartOfAStrager #NetGalley
#HeartOfAStrager #NetGalley
October 25, 2025
Thank you to the publisher, VIKING An imprint of Penguin Random House, and the author, Angela Buchdahl, for the privilege to read this advanced copy through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
I'm very selective and stingy on giving a book five stars. It has to be a book that will "stay" with me, that is, I'll remember it in the future. This book definitely qualifies. I found it very enlightening and informative on the life of a Jewish rabbi and cantor who is also Korean. The details on Jewish religion and history were provided in a way that anyone may understand. Numerous connections to the Talmud, Torah and Bible were provided. I found Ms. Buckhold's story and insight interesting, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to have read her book. There were numerous points for an avid learner to grow in faith (regardless of your denomination) and personal improvement.
As Ms. Buckholder states, this is "the story of an unlikely rabbi. A story that could only happen in America." She carries the book into the recent events in Israel with the October 7, 2023, attack. I found her perspective on this compelling. Read this book! I'm glad I did!
I'm very selective and stingy on giving a book five stars. It has to be a book that will "stay" with me, that is, I'll remember it in the future. This book definitely qualifies. I found it very enlightening and informative on the life of a Jewish rabbi and cantor who is also Korean. The details on Jewish religion and history were provided in a way that anyone may understand. Numerous connections to the Talmud, Torah and Bible were provided. I found Ms. Buckhold's story and insight interesting, and I am very grateful for the opportunity to have read her book. There were numerous points for an avid learner to grow in faith (regardless of your denomination) and personal improvement.
As Ms. Buckholder states, this is "the story of an unlikely rabbi. A story that could only happen in America." She carries the book into the recent events in Israel with the October 7, 2023, attack. I found her perspective on this compelling. Read this book! I'm glad I did!
November 17, 2025
An inspiring journey. I was first introduced to Rabbi Buchdahl when I listened to her sermon this past Rosh Hashanah. Her compassionate wisdom helped me to find a place of peace. Her book has been equally inspiring. It has helped me to deepen my understanding of Judaism and also assured me that my way of understanding myself, and the world and people around me was a path I should continue. Her story while not remarkable in terms of overcoming great misfortune, speaks more to the emotional willingness to live within yourself and trust/ listen to your passions and wisdom that you gave gathered throughout your life. Thank you Rabbi Buchdahl. Such compassionate wisdom.
November 15, 2025
5 stars does not adequately rate this book! 500 stars might be closer! This book is so well crafted in its structure, flow, writing and teaching. Rabbi Buchdahl’s personal story is fascinating and her teaching resonates strongly with me and helps me understand that my values actually come from my Jewish background. Rabbi Buchdahl’s teaching demonstrates Torah is pertinent to how we cope with our current daily lives (far beyond “rules” to follow). Brava and thank you to Rabbi Buchdahl! I wish everyone I know, Jewish and non-Jewish alike, would read this book to learn more about what Judaism can teach us and what it means to be Jewish. This is a book I will go back to time and again.
November 17, 2025
I just finished her book. I enjoyed it for several reasons. First it was enjoyable to listen to her sharing her story. I liked the format including devar Torah and her voice singing; her connections from Jewish spirituality to her life and I felt to my life. I enjoyed her description of her family background on both sides; connections to current events. I appreciate her sharing of experiences and lessons.
November 16, 2025
Having listened to the audiobook of "Heart of a stranger", I could not imagine consuming it any other way. The audiobook narrated by and filled with wonderful and contextually relevant music performed by Rabbi Angela Buchdahl. Rabbi Buchdahl is a gifted Cantor, Rabbi and Educator. This book is more than a memoir, each chapter ends with a Dvar Torah, a short lesson which offers actionable and meaningful wisdom for the reader. You don't have to be Jewish to enjoy and learn from this work.
December 11, 2025
I loved this book. Since the kindle & audiobook weren’t synced I listened to the audiobook while reading the kindle, and the audiobook was outstanding. Rabbi Buchdahl beautifully narrates her book and sings snippets of Jewish songs. I rarely reread books, but I will be coming back to this one and adding it to my physical bookshelves once it comes out in paperback.
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