Book Review of “What to Do About the Solomons”

The thought-provoking book “What to Do About the Solomons” by Bethany Ball provides a window into the daily activities of a Jewish family residing in Israel. Yakov Solomon, the patriarch, and his four offspring, who are all battling their own inner demons and trying to find their place in the world, are at the center of the narrative.

The novel is divided into chapters that focus on each of the family members and their individual struggles. Yakov is a successful businessman who built his fortune through questionable means, and his past mistakes continue to haunt him. His eldest son, Yasha, is a failed actor who struggles with addiction and feels like a failure in the eyes of his father. His daughter, Maya, is a writer who has just ended a relationship and is struggling to find her voice. His other son, Nathan, is a soldier who is grappling with his own sense of identity and purpose.

Ball expertly combines the viewpoints of each family member, providing insights into their unique struggles and motives. The characters are interesting and deep, and the writing is transparent and compelling. The work examines issues of family, identity, love, and forgiveness and, in the end, inspires optimism in the reader.

While the pacing of the novel can be slow at times, the characters are so well-drawn that it is easy to become invested in their lives and struggles. The novel also offers a unique perspective on Israeli culture and the challenges faced by those living in a complex and conflicted society.

In conclusion, “What to Do About the Solomons” is a touching and exquisitely written book that presents a distinctive viewpoint on family, identity, and the intricacies of contemporary Israeli culture. Anybody who is curious about the human experience in all its messy, convoluted grandeur must read it.