The Read Around The World Book Club discussion

final thoughts

The book was a nice and light read. It touched lightly on different cultural aspect of a jewish family, cross- culture, integration, segragation acceptance etc.
Someone who does not have any knowlegde or exposure of the jewish culture would probably enjoy it more than i did.
Regardless, its a book which is
enjoyable.

This was an enjoyable read, I liked how easily it read and the short chapters I'm always a big fan of. My personal favourite parts were the discussions of languages and food, because I always enjoy that in books. I think it was a bit repetitive at points and maybe could be shorter but I'm glad I read it.

I thought this was very good. It is an “easy” read and has a deceptively light tone given the heavy issues it tackles. I very much appreciated the way Margot considers how to face attitudes and beliefs that one can never understand or agree with, and may even find deplorable, yet manage to move past this to a state of tolerance and respect and even friendship. I also liked how she explores the different faces of privilege within the book; the Schneiders’ situation and view of themselves contrasts so starkly with Marjane’s story, yet the discrimination they face is still very real.

I rarely read memoirs but am glad I read this. I hope the Schneiders liked it.

This book was an enjoyable read. I especially enjoyed the way the book portrayed the life of the Antwerp orthodox Jews. I also enjoyed the author's follow-ups on the family.

I loved this book. Learnt so much both about a way of life and also about a country I was not familiar with. I found myself looking up references to the Jewish faith generally and in Belgium in particular.