A book about an Orthodox Jewish girl is not typically of general interest, but Gravity, Leanne Lieberman's debut novell, is an exception. The issues that sixteen-year-old Ellie faces are faced by most teens in one form or another: faith, sexuality and family.
Ellie’s “reborn Jewish” parents are going to Israel for the month of August. Ellie is going to her Bubbie’s (grandmother’s) summer lake cottage. Her older sister, Neshama, is a counselor at an all girl summer camp.
Ellie’s “reborn Jewish” parents are going to Israel for the month of August. Ellie is going to her Bubbie’s (grandmother’s) summer lake cottage. Her older sister, Neshama, is a counselor at an all girl summer camp.
At the lake, Ellie meets Lindsay and is attracted to her immediately. As the story progresses, the reader learns that Ellie has been attracted to girls before but never acted upon it. However, Lindsay initiates a kiss and Ellie is a willing partner. Ellie must determine whether or not she is a lesbian. She must balance this against her religious beliefs and her family.
Most teens grapple with Ellie's issues and Lieberman handles them well. The characters and situations are real. The writing is simple, straight-forward and descriptive. The action is well paced. You as a reader will really like Ellie and Neshama and their family. You will empathize with their feelings and beliefs. You will feel satisfied with the story’s ending. You will enjoy Gravity.
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