Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots

Unorthodox: The Scandalous Rejection of My Hasidic Roots by Deborah Feldman is a powerful memoir about identity, freedom, faith, and the courage to leave behind the only world one has ever known. In this bestselling true story, Feldman writes about growing up in the strict Satmar Hasidic community, where rules shaped every part of daily life, from clothing and speech to education, marriage, and reading.

As a young woman, Deborah begins to imagine a different future through stolen moments with books by authors such as Jane Austen and Louisa May Alcott. Trapped in an unhappy arranged marriage and struggling against the expectations placed on her, she ultimately chooses to leave for the sake of herself and her young son.

Compelling and deeply personal, Unorthodox is a strong choice for readers of memoirs, women’s stories, religious communities, and personal transformation.

Hardcover, Very Good