A fascinating read. I had no knowledge of Jews in America before the 20th century. I particularly liked this book because it focused on how America and Judaism interacted with each other and how Jews set about surviving and then thriving in an unknown land of better opportunity. There was still anti-Semitism and other pressures but Jews had more mobility and flexibility than they did in Europe and they used it to their advantage. I really appreciate the author using quotes from letters and journals to highlight experiences and how Jews at the time viewed the world. ( )