Davita's Harp: A Novel

Chaim Potok

Mar 2010 · Sold by Ballantine Books

About this ebook

For Davita Chandal, growing up in New York in the 1930s and '40s is an experience of indescribable joy—and unfathomable sadness. Her loving parents, both fervent radicals, fill her with the fiercely bright hope for a new, better world. But the deprivations of war and the Depression take their ruthless toll. And Davita, unexpectedly, finds in the Jewish faith that her mother had long ago abandoned both a solace to her questioning inner pain and a test of her budding spirit of independence. To her, life's elusive possibilities for happiness, for fulfillment, for decency, become as real and resonant as the music of the small harp that hangs on her door, welcoming all guests with its sweet, gentle tones.

Praise for Davita's Harp

“Rich . . . enchanting . . . [Chaim] Potok's bravest book.”—The New York Times Book Review

“It is an enormous pleasure to sink into such a rich . . . solidly written novel. The reader knows from the first few pages that he is in the hands of a sure professional who won't let him down.”—People

“Engrossing . . . Filled with a host of richly drawn characters. Potok is a master storyteller.”—Chicago Tribune

“Gripping and intriguing . . . A well-told tale that needed telling.”—The Philadelphia Inquirer

Ratings and reviews

Great story! Have read several of Potoks books. This is my favorite.

Great read. Beautiful story, and gorgeous narrative voice.

About the author

Chaim Potok was born in New York City in 1929. He graduated from Yeshiva University and the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, was ordained as a rabbi, and earned his PhD in philosophy from the University of Pennsylvania. He also served as editor of the Jewish Publication Society of America. Potok’s first novel, The Chosen, published in 1967, received the Edward Lewis Wallant Memorial Book Award and was nominated for the National Book Award. He is author of eight novels, including In the Beginning and My Name Is Asher Lev, and Wanderings, a history of the Jews. He died in 2002.