L'CHAIM: The Story of a Russian ÉmigrÉ Boy

This warm photo essay portrays Zev Tsukerman, a 12-year-old Russian boy who moved with his family to San Francisco. He is an Orthodox Jew who was unable to practice his religion in the former Soviet Union. Brown (Someone Special, Just Like You, 1984, etc.) follows Zev through his daily routines -- dressing, praying, learning, playing -- all of which he does with an infectious gusto and in accordance with the Jewish commandments. Zev is a normal, healthy kid; his favorite class is PE and he makes no bones about occasionally wanting to cheat on the dietary laws. Still, Zev is doubly devoted to his new country and rediscovered religion. His upbeat story is a good introduction to a different lifestyle. A joyful paean to America and Judaism.