What do successful young executives, geophysicists and British peerage have in common? What about doctors, photographers and politicians? All are part of a baalei teshuvah phenomenon that is a prominent part of the rebirth and dramatic growth of the American Torah community.
It is a movement of individuals and thus one that can be fully appreciated on the individual level. The twenty, highly personal experiences presented here represent an inspiring glimpse into this highly heroism and silent victory.
Far from being failures, most were highly successful or getting there living their own versions of the American dream when they found that they needed more. Their journeys homeward were often anything but smooth, a long winding path rather than a six-lane highway. They met the twists and turns with persistence and fortitude, often with help from unexpected quarters.
Most of all they had the comforting, if sometimes inexplicable, conviction that they were finally coming home.
Written by the protagonists themselves, these real-life narratives defy easy characterization. As real stories by real people, they differ somewhat from more tidy, over-idealized renditions in which everything must run smoothly and all soon live happily ever after. Instead, they reflect the complexity of life itself, potholes and all. However, whatever these narratives may lose in childlike simplicity, authenticity and impact, for words from the heart go to the heart.
The stories of this unique collection are ore than a look at the admirable and stenuous spiritual efforts of others. They are a challenge to us all.
Hardcover 203 pp.
