Inside, Outside: A Novel

Along with DON'T STOP THE CARNIVAL, Wouk's funniest book, INSIDE, OUTSIDE is an easier read than most of the other topics he has tackled. Set in a recent decade, the title refers to the fact that in Jewish families, some people use one name at home, their Hebrew, "inside" name and the Anglicized version of that same name out in the big world. Along with the name chosen go two different and distinctive aspects of their personalities.

It seemed clear on reading INSIDE, OUTSIDE that the hero's sister, Lee, is the all-grown up version of Marjorie Morningstar. This is not Herman Wouk's most important book, far from it, but it is one of his easiest works to read. The story he has told, as always, is an interesting one. There is no such thing as a bad book when Mr. Wouk is the author.


GREATEST BOOK I HAVE EVER READ   June 18, 1999
22 out of 23 found this review helpful

Though this is the story of a Jewish boy growing up in New York, it felt to me that Wouk had met my soul one day and probed it of its deepest thoughts. No book I have ever read has spoken this directly to me. The theme of alienation is one that anyone, anywhere, Jew or Gentile, male or female can identify with.

It also helps that this is one of the funnier books I have read in a long time. It is a true gem.


from the back cover of the book   July 6, 2001
13 out of 14 found this review helpful

Fascinating, funny, romantic, wise... This is a stunning exploration of the American Jewish experience - the heartfelt tale of every immigrant torn between the culture of his forefathers and the glorious temptations of a new land's dream. - A grand piece of storytelling-Boston Globe. Rich and compelling-The New York Times. Laugh until your side aches...Wipe away a tear...-Pittsburgh Press


Very funny and moving.   May 20, 1999
4 out of 4 found this review helpful

A terrific story of the clash of immigrant and American cultures. Although Jewish in setting, this could be any of our immigrant ancestor's story.


Inside, Outside   April 20, 2008
Robert F., Fritz (Livingston, TX)
2 out of 2 found this review helpful

Herman Wouk is an exceptional writer and this book lives up to all the others. I feel like I know the characters and I've gained a much better understanding of Jewish life in America.