PDF The Miracle of Intervale Avenue: The Story of a Jewish Congregation in the South Bronx by Jack Kugelmass in History

Review

0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A Miracle with an expiration dateBy Evan FranklJack Kugelmass did an incredible job in writing both the original book and this mid-90's update. It can be read as anthropology; sociology; ethnic studies; and by now social history. It also raises questions of historic preservation outside of city centers and tourist destinations. As another reviewer has mentioned; the Intervale Jewish Center was torn down in 2012. It is probably safe to assume that the elderly community profiled in this book 30 years earlier has all passed on. However; the fact that a successful book and documentary did not lead to any preservation / restoration campaign for the building itself is troubling. Much of the book deals with the universal dilema of the elderly trying to determine the legacy they will bequest to future generations (financial and otherwise). Their stories are still alive in this book; now that their "home" is no longer.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. I was interested because I grew up in the Bronx ...By Kevin FitzI was interested because I grew up in the Bronx and passed it for yrs and was curious. Interesting book0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A Jewish Miracle in the South BronxBy Barbara SegalI recently finished reading the book The Miracle of Intervale Avenue: The Story of a Jewish Congregation in the South Bronx; a study written by the anthropologist; Jack Kugelmass. This clearly written and well-researched book grabbed my attention from the beginning to the end. I cried when some of the people died and cheered when others were able to show the incredible strength to keep going. It is an emotional description of an aged population of Jewish people who decide to stay in their neighborhood which has become overrun with drug dealers and residents who have very different beliefs and values. There are some amazing incidents which are described as the miracles of this story. The congregation manages to attract an unusual collection of members and despite unbelievable hardships and set-backs continues to have services and provide a community for those who choose to come and support one another. I highly recommend this book!