by: Rebecca Wolf
Goodreads description:
Inspired by a true story, Rebecca Wolf’s debut novel, “Alive and Beating,” follows six people from diverse backgrounds and neighborhoods throughout Jerusalem, all desperately in need of organ transplants, on the day their lives will forever be changed. In a place where ancient divides often seem insurmountable, these six characters—Leah, a Hasidic young woman; Yael, a daughter of Holocaust survivors; Hoda, a Palestinian hairdresser; David, an Iraqi restaurant owner; Severin, a Catholic priest; and Youssef and Yosef, two teenage boys whose fates are inextricably linked—are united despite their differences by a shared goal of becoming healthy and finding meaning in their lives. Wolf’s masterful storytelling is a testament to the belief that life can be renewed, faith can transcend boundaries, and that at our core, we all share a common humanity.
Helen says: 🤓🤓🤓 3/4
This would also make an excellent movie (see Broken Country). Based on a true story of the author’s friend, this was a series of vignettes of the recipients of organ donations due to a catastrophic bus bombing in Jerusalem. The plot was a tad bit rudimentary and could have been developed more, but who am I to judge? This was original and very thought provoking. It would make a good book club choice. Make sure to read the epilogue.
Holly says: 🤓🤓🤓🤓1/2
I loved this book! I was very moved by the situations and the characters, inspired by a true story. The book is heartbreaking, but also uplifting. One of the most moving parts to me, which caused me to do more research, was the realization of the cultures, with their generational biases, hatreds, tolerances, intolerances, conceptions, misconceptions, etc., who all live together, and apart, in this ancient and historical part of the world. The book is short, the writing is concise and direct, and the story is very moving. I highly recommend this one- one of my favorites of the year. I hope someone make this into a movie.
Helen and Holly Hit the Books 