46 pages 1 hour read

Anzia Yezierska

Bread Givers

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1925

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Bread Givers by Anzia Yezierska follows Sara Smolinsky, a young Jewish-American girl growing up in 1920s New York, as she defies her father Reb's patriarchal beliefs to pursue education and career aspirations amidst her family's struggles. The novel delves into themes of traditional values versus modern aspirations, patriarchal control, and the complexities of assimilation and identity. This material contains themes of misogynistic treatment of women and derogatory language towards people with disabilities and mental illnesses.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Anzia Yezierska's Bread Givers compellingly depicts the struggles of a young Jewish immigrant woman in 1920s America. Praised for its authentic portrayal of cultural and gender conflicts, it also faces criticism for a somewhat predictable plot. The novel’s strong, relatable protagonist and rich historical context outweigh these minor shortcomings.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Bread Givers?

Readers who appreciate Bread Givers by Anzia Yezierska are often drawn to immigrant narratives, feminist themes, and coming-of-age stories. Those who enjoy books like A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith and The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros will find this novel compelling for its portrayal of resilience and cultural identity clashes.

Recommended

Reading Age

14+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Jewish Literature

Education

Themes

Relationships: Family

Relationships: Fathers

Society: Immigration

Topics

Immigration / Refugee

Education

History: World