The Cross and the Pear Tree

by Victor Perera

Originally published in 1996 and now available in paperback, a biographical account of Victor Perera's search for his roots which provides information about how Sephardic Jews were exiled after the Spanish Inquisition, and details of their arduous struggle for peace and cultural freedom.

Genres: Judaism, Biography

320 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1995

Reviews

[Luis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Victor Perera takes us through his family’s journey through the various countries that lived in and finally to his native Guatemala. Victor, a descendant of Sephardic Jews, intends to trace his family’s genealogy to better understand the situation of his ancestors. I gave the book 3 stars because though it is an interesting read, the middle parts where he investigates the French, Spanish, and Portuguese Pereira as potentially connections as a genealogist don’t really do it for me. There seems to be more a social/spiritual and “same surname so we must be family” connection rather than a genealogical journey into finding his ancestors. It also took me longer to read than I expected, the storyline at times feels burdensome to read.

[Joelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

I started reading this book because it's about Sephardic Judaism. while a memoir about one family I found it intriguing. However in the last few chapters it became much more about the author's direct life and I found much outdated language that made me uncomfortable.

[Jeremy · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exploration of the author's Sephardic roots, told through a potted exploration of the Marranos persecution and expulsion from Spain and the lives of his family in Jerusalem and Guatemala. Unexpectedly interesting in places, tedious in others

[Marlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

This should be mandatory reading for all high school students.

[Elyse Walters · Rating 2 out of 5]

Much to 'text' book for my 'pleasure' reading