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I Am Forbidden

I Am Forbidden, a novel by Anouk Markovits, is not a story for the faint of heart. Beginning with its opening scene, it hurtles forward with each scene replacing the last, with increasing intensity. The scenes do not resort to melodrama. Rather Markovits writes the story of a Satmar Hasidic family, whose loves and beliefs collide, with a factual style that juxtaposes the horror of the scenes themselves.  At times the family members' dedication to their families, their communities and their understanding of Torah law cause personal conflict.

Two sisters take two different paths. One seeks to go beyond the confines of the traditions of her community, first secretly reading forbidden books and then physically leaving the boundaries of her home. The bonds of the sisters are now severed. They are no longer able to speak to eachother. How have their choices impacted their lives? This book offers no easy answers. Markovits' characters are more dimensional than that. Yet we wonder what if? How could one change in direction have made a difference? Markovits' story of love and law reminds us that choices can be painful, but that, even so, life does not always take us in the direction of our choices. Markovits asks challenging questions about personal beliefs, community ties and laws that may not be broken. Have the courage to explore this novel, and come out changed.

Linda Blasnik, Librarian