An American Time

A Historical Fiction Collection

Given our people’s vast history, it's no surprise that historical fiction comprises some of the best frum fiction.

Historical fiction offers a broader array of appropriate settings and conflicts, an exotic element that keeps us turning, and an expansive view of human nature. When our fast-paced world blurs our clarity, we can recognize ourselves in the past and the depth of human nature that molds our struggles.

This week's collection features historicals closer to home (for some of us!): those set in the US. Enjoy!

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Full Harvest - Period and setting meet emotional depth to form a multi-layered family drama, with beautiful writing that blurs the lines between fiction and poetry. Coming to America to meet her future husband, Gella must make a place for herself while facing a hostile sister-in-law, a distancing husband, and a shrinking sense of self. Everyone is struggling to survive, but only the unwelcoming physical environment says the quiet parts out loud.

Every Man a Slave - A sweeping travelogue in the untold chapter of the slave-holding Orthodox community. A fighter for “true-Judaism” navigates society, a slave works his way to Eved C’naani status, and the reader explores the world. Unlikely experiences, both fantastical and gruesome, are richly detailed and seamlessly held together at a varying pace.

This is America! - A beautifully crafted family drama transforms a black and white bygone era into a vibrant family with struggles that resonate deeply. The fast-paced plot and dynamic characters make This is America beloved by historical-fiction shy readers, too. Tscharna contends with her changing family and the changing times and is desperate to find a place for herself within it. Is there a future for her in this world?

Wildlands - M. Kenan is sure to provide a completely original take on a thriller. Her layered and complex characters contend with nuanced conflict that satisfies any amount of intellectual thirst and challenges any conventions about how a frum novel works. The startlingly non-linear format and fast pace take the reader on a rollercoaster, overthrowing assumptions with every astonishing plot twist.

Freefall - A compelling historical drama that fits no genre convention but encompasses the entire gamut of what can be done. A charming couple's budding relationship, the harshness of the WW2 battlefront, and a father and son's stormy relationship are juxtaposed within the full spectrum of human emotion. Exquisite writing hides layers and layers, making Freefall infinitely re-readable.

Shortchanged - The Lower East Side gets personality with the sarcastic banter and irony of the Rosen family. Sy and Eva reconcile their past and future with the present moment. Blanche and Charlie Stretch themselves for family, then turn around and wonder where they fit into the changing times. With signature graphic and visual writing and genre-defying appeal, Shortchanged is a timeless masterpiece about sacrifices, choices, and courage.

The Tip of the Iceberg - “Spoiled Princess” Esther is oblivious to the changing world until she disappoints her parents and the consequences change everything. A glamorous voyage on the Titanic, new relationships formed, and assumptions haunt her forever. Esther contends with the weight of memories, guilt, and missed opportunities as she begins a new life. A light yet bittersweet time-shifting read.

The Mexico Files - The dramatic and suspenseful action of The Mexico Files is startlingly relevant in an era of COVID and conspiracy. A heinous plot rooted decades earlier links a wide cast of characters and is heading toward a catastrophe. Two brothers, friends-turned-rivals, are forced into a high-stakes reckoning with their estrangement. This surprising thriller features intertwined plots that escalate until the final satisfying conclusion.

The Promise of Freedom - Rochele is a shtetl girl; she’s in Boston only temporarily and doesn’t fit in. But the world of balls, hats, and calling cards challenges her and forces her to choose between her childhood ideals and the new winds sweeping away her cousins. A gentle, thought-provoking coming-of-age novel about belonging and identity, a gentle read for age 13+.

Trailblazer - Colorful and mysterious, Raizel's journey leads her to unique experiences and new inner strength. Yet, when her encounters seem to have something in common, she can only wonder: is she running from danger or toward it? Left with only her mother's caution and the evasiveness of those she trusts, where is she headed?

Ruby Zucker - A delightful and engaging coming-of-age boarding school tale. Ensconced in the elite Jewish society of the early 20th century, Ruby is ready to grow up. Against the backdrop of the WWI homefront, Ruby and her friends extend themselves, have fun, and discover who they are. A light read, Ruby Zucker is charmingly descriptive with a Victorian-era feel.

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