Released in 1967, The Chosen became a bestseller. Author Dr. Chaim Potok's knowledge
of Jewish culture and his knowledge of philosophy greatly influenced this piece of
literature helping him to create a realistic setting with a believable scenario.
Centered around Brooklyn, two teens, Reuven Maulters and Danny Saunders become
best friends. Because of the fact that their fathers are leaders of different Jewish beliefs,
hatred clashed between them when they first met. This hatred lead to the injury of
Reuven, but was the key that opened their long lasting friendship and eventually, the key
that made it possible for Danny's father to have the courage to talk to Danny.
The critics agree that all the main characters in this novel were all unique. One of these
characters is Danny. Danny was a person who was very smart, a person of his caliber
was born once in a few lifetimes.
"In many of the books I have read, there is always at
least one person who has a superabnormal characteristic." (Toguchi, Mark). Reuven is a
likable person who is also smart, but nowhere close to Danny. Reb Saunders, Danny's
father, is inconsistent at many times. "He had mood swings often, but I think this was
made intentionally to show how much he is affected by the silent relationship with his
son." (Merkin, Daphne). Mr. Malters, Reuven's father, is an adult who constantly gives
advice and takes charge of all situations. "To me, he seems a little unreal because he is
always right and has a solution to everything." (Toguchi, Mark).
"In dialogue, I thought Reb Saunders was the most effective person. Whenever he talked
to people, it made the reader want to listen to him. Whenever he was furious, I was
blown away by the intensity. Danny's dialogue showed how...