Joyce Antler

This isn't a complete history of the Jewish mother, but more a review of the Jewish American mother from the early 20th century through to the early 21st. There's some history and sociology, but the book is tilted towards cultural portrayals of the Jewish mother and the development of the stereotype as an overprotective nag. It's somewhat selective but nonetheless interesting--I preferred the more historically connected aspects and less those that are solely cultural analysis with less show more connection to the lived reality of Jewish women. show less

Jewish women were undeniably instrumental in shaping the Women’s Liberation movement of the 1960’s, 70’s, and 80’s, however, historians and participants themselves have overlooked Jewish contributions. Antler has at last broken the silence and features compelling narratives that reveal the struggles and achievement of Jewish radical feminists. This narrative is especially relevant in the light of what is happening in the women’s movement today. Jewish women have retreated in the show more light of anti-Jewish attacks. Anti-Semitism is on the rise. As strong Jewish women we must rise against this and show the world what can be done. show less