Chasing illusions by Devora Weiner

Senior Member Joined: Jan 14 2011 Posts: 110

Has anyone read this book? I want to buy a novel for Pesach but since so much money want a review first! thanks!

Gold Member Joined: Aug 23 2011 Posts: 1581

I would not reccomend it. I found the book to be very frustrating to read because the plot was so unrealistic. I was dissapointed because I liked this author's first few books.

The basic plot:

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I liked reading it, because I didnt find it too unrealistic. unfortunately, such things do happen.

iirc, it doesnt actually end in 'happily after ever', it just says that they were going to make a fresh start, but that was only the very last bit, not too many pages devoted to that.

Active Poster Joined: Aug 25 2011 Posts: 53

I really want to get hold of this book, I love Devora Weiner's novels!

Platinum Member Joined: Nov 17 2008 Posts: 5050

I thought it was awful (as did the rest of my family).
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Platinum Member Joined: Mar 12 2009 Posts: 13203

I suspect that if you liked her other books, you'll like this one, and vv. I'll probably end up reading it if a local library gets it.
I would say this: if one hasn't read her other books, read one first. Jewish books are pretty expensive.
People are entitled to their own tastes, even if they aren't mine. (Though why in heavens they'd want such tastes is another story Razz

)
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Diamond Member Joined: Dec 28 2005 Posts: 4663

Agreed w/ September-June and OOT Bubby.
Real disappointment. Especially because I found her other books intriuging.

Gold Member Joined: Aug 23 2011 Posts: 1581

Gold Member Joined: Aug 23 2011 Posts: 1581

Diamond Member Joined: Dec 28 2005 Posts: 4663

September-June Laughing

I just got really annoyed at the VERY spoiled husband who complained when his wife bought takeout instead of cooking soup to nuts (she did bake challah, mind you). This is his wife who works full time and supports him in learning.

dear september june,

when I said I think it is realistic, I was thinking of how the wife and husband were behaving, their thought patterns, their decisions. those were not far fetched. consider yourself lucky that you dont know such types.

Gold Member Joined: Mar 28 2005 Posts: 1069

was not an enjoyable read at all. it felt like an obligation to finish reading. not even fun. buy a diff book.
ps: I did like other books of hers, so devorah, if you're here, keep writing!

Diamond Member Joined: Nov 10 2005 Posts: 3401

Re: buying gossip magazine - where I live there is a supermarket with areas under Hashgacha that where you can buy takeout, deli, bakery items but you can definitley buy not kosher or magazines in other areas.

I usually really like her books but to me the style was the biggest drawback - felt like I was reading diaries and there wasn't much communication. It was an interesting read ESP since it was adult issues brought rather than the usual frum novel plot geared for teenagers.

Executive Member Joined: Apr 09 2008 Posts: 400

I really enjoyed the book. The plot was a little farfetched; she probably exaggerated a little to bring a point across.
I did NOT like the ending. They lived happily ever after and all that�real like doesn�t always work like that.
What happens when they get to Israel? Is she really going to become a stay-at- home mom, pulleeze.

It was also the first time I�ve ever seen the husband stating his love so openly in a Jewish Novel; Something like �my everlasting love for you� or something to that extent.

I put down the book and told my husband that I�m quitting my job. Um, I don�t think it�s feasible at this point, but definitely a consideration. Kids grow up so fast; nothing takes the place of a mother. Even though my kids are my top priority, I was racked with guilt when I left my 6 week old baby with a (loving) babysitter all day.

I did like the style except in the middle of nowhere they add shulamis. she is also a lot older than tehilla.

I do like how the husband saw life from her point of view and the mixed messages that people give each other, I am a sahm. I was annoyed at what was wanted for her. that she should quit. since when why? some pple are different. they should switch off from wanting a career to be more at home? would it be the same if she was a man? what about the real issues that they bring up? I know its a "frum" novel so it has to end a certain way. what about acceptance? ideals can change. are there any other options. does she really get over her crisis. does making a new change help or not?