Wednesday, October 4, 2017

Review of "Keys to Tetouan" by Mois Benarroch

 Keys to Tetouan

Review by ChloeHumphreys -- Keys to Tetouan



I rate this book a 3 out of 4 stars. It is a well written novel with minimal grammatical errors, which, as a history lover, I was instantly hooked on. I believe a strong introduction and more background information may attract a wider range of readers, not just those interested in Judaism and history in general. The ambiguity throughout the novel has a charming character, however I believe with just a touch of explicitness the novel would be far more captivating and universal.

Benarroch's historical literature, gripping yet easy to digest, holds the raw authenticity that is only achieved through extensive research and a personal connection to the subject.

Thrust into the Benzimra family's experiences throughout the generations, the reader is blindly forced to fit together the pieces of the puzzle and act like a true historian, interpreting various source-like accounts. Ultimately, the work is a moving, poetic and nostalgic account on the true makeup of identity and the human yearning for home - which, in this case, is Tetouan.

Delicately, Benarroch describes the subtle and ambiguous nuances within the Jewish faith and explores a myriad arguments on the interesting debate on Zionism. It is a story of anti-Semitism and clashes between variant faiths and cultures in general, it is about exile and persecution - an 'understanding [of] the ever-exiled Jew' - but also about coexistence and peaceful assimilation - Benarroch's focus is especially relevant and resonates in today's political climate, therefore interesting me greatly.

The Benzimra family largely demonstrate the importance of geographical identity, highlighting the common fallacy that faith or ethnicity is the predominant feature of one's personhood - there is no place like home after all. Not only does Benzimra dabble in history and the ethics of faith, he subtly poses many philosophical questions - from what or where does man form his identity? What is home? Is home ever truly a concrete place or is it metaphysical? As a reader, you are forced to consider many things, which is both rewarding and ensures you continue reading the novel until the very end.

Ultimately, the author also has another clear and resounding message throughout the novel - the importance of the acknowledgment of history, including but not exclusive to one's own ancestry, shown through moments such as that concerning David Zemer.

The improbable end, however, starkly contrasts with the rest of the largely realistic novel and can unintentionally be seen as quite comical. However, despite this arguably out of place ending, the children (Moshe and David) are resultantly forced to explore their past. As the reader we focus on their naivety when they are uninterested in certain aspects of their history, and the moral and intellectual superiority when intrigued. This allows Benarroch to successfully reiterate the importance and great regard with which one must hold history and legacy.

Ultimately, 'Keys to Tetouan' was an enjoyable read despite some flaws, an excellent piece of historical fiction full of drama, emotion, and the age-long struggle to find 'home' for those of the Jewish faith. Benarroch's strong messages throughout the novel make for an interesting, thought-provoking and informative read that I will definitely remember for years to come, as well as providing inspiration for the reader to explore and delve deeper into Jewish history.

******
Keys to Tetouan 
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