Elkan Lubliner, American   By: Montague Glass (1877-1934)

In "Elkan Lubliner, American" Montague Glass delivers a captivating and heartfelt tale of a Jewish immigrant chasing the American Dream amidst the bustling streets of New York City. Seamlessly blending humor, tenderness, and poignant social commentary, Glass masterfully crafts a narrative that exposes the struggles and triumphs of an early 20th-century immigrant experience.

Set in the Lower East Side, the story follows Elkan Lubliner, a young Jewish man who escapes the poverty and persecution of his homeland to seek a better life in America. Through Elkan's eyes, readers are treated to a vivid depiction of the teeming immigrant neighborhoods, with their tattered tenements, bustling markets, and vibrant cultural tapestry.

What sets Glass' narrative apart is the depth and authenticity of his characters. Elkan is a relatable and endearing protagonist, driven by his desire for success and his burning determination to assimilate into American society. As he navigates the treacherous path of social mobility, readers follow Elkan's journey, experiencing his joys and sorrows, his hilarious misadventures, and his touching encounters with a host of memorable supporting characters.

Glass skillfully weaves a larger social commentary within the fabric of his story. Through Elkan's experiences, the author sheds light on the realities faced by immigrants in early 20th-century America, highlighting the prejudices, obstacles, and relentless struggle for survival. While at times the narrative can be emotionally heavy, Glass thoughtfully balances the weightiness with humor, offering readers a respite from the hardships endured by Elkan and his fellow immigrants.

The novel is further enriched by Glass' impeccable dialogue, which showcases the linguistic diversity of the Lower East Side inhabitants. The Yiddish-infused English creates an authentic atmosphere, bringing the vibrant and colorful immigrant community to life. Every conversation crackles with energy and wit, vividly capturing the essence of the era and the melting pot of cultures that defined the Lower East Side.

"Elkan Lubliner, American" is a powerful and poignant novel that explores themes of identity, assimilation, and the pursuit of the American Dream. Montague Glass' writing captivates and transports readers to a unique time in American history, offering an intimate glimpse into the lives of those who dared to venture across oceans in search of a better life. With its engaging characters, richly detailed setting, and thought-provoking narrative, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the immigrant experience and the complex tapestry of American society.

First Page:

"Nu, Philip," cried Marcus Polatkin to his partner, Philip Scheikowitz, as they sat in the showroom of their place of business one June morning, "even if the letter does got bad news in it you shouldn't take on so hard. When a feller is making good over here and the Leute im Russland hears about it, understand me, they are all the time sending him bad news... Continue reading book >>