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“Joseph Sutton takes us on a geographical journey across the country, as well as a cultural journey…”

The Life and Death of Abraham Massry and Other Stories is a well-written, engaging account of growing up in mid- to late-20th century U.S.A. Joseph Sutton takes us on a geographical journey across the country, as well as a cultural journey which touches the author’s—and the readers’—emotions. It is a story about how a boy, born into a Syrian Jewish family in New York, grows into maturity as he grapples with the process of finding himself. The author tells us about his immigrant father (after whom the book is titled), about his mother, who, although born in the U.S.A., was raised in the old traditional way, and the life they led. The author shows us, by recounting various events in his life, how he attempts to break out of that traditional environment and adapt to the modern American culture. It is an emotional struggle to reconcile these diverse influences. Mr. Sutton deftly handles this portrayal with warmth, humor, sympathy, and sensitivity. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is growing up. And, since at any age we are all in the process of growing up, I highly recommend this book to everyone.” —Alex Reginald, Kindle review