Jewtopia
The Chosen Audiobook for the Chosen People
by Bryan Fogel and Sam Wolfson
This three-disc audiobook is a brief 3.5 hours, but you’ll be exhausted
after that time from the frantic pace and non-stop laughs. Unlike
most nonfiction audiobooks, writers-actors Fogel and Wolfson, joined
by actress Jackie Tohn, perform rather than read the manuscript, which
is a companion to their successful Off-Broadway show of the same name.
The play originated in Los Angeles and became the longest-running
original theatrical comedy in L.A.’s history.
The audiobook contains irreverent swipes at Jewish history, culture,
holidays, travel, dining, hygiene, mothers, and other stereotypes.
In addition to crafting the humor, which usually hits its mark,
the authors obviously did extensive research in gathering information
(or else paid really close attention during Hebrew school). Some
of the material is raunchier than necessary and perpetuates unkind
images of Jews, but overall Jewtopia offers an entertaining
and comprehensive look at all things Jewish. Especially funny were
their bits on Moses in the desert and grooming tips for "manscaping."
The audiobook differs from the hardback book which differs from
the play, which inspired both. The audiobook relies heavily on the
performances of Fogel and Wolfson, in addition to several characters
portrayed by Tohn. Many of the characters are designed to annoy
(and they certainly do), and throughout the work the authors appear
uncomfortably self-aware of their inability to easily transition
the material into different formats. A fast, funny, frolic through
Jewtopia is just what the (Jewish) doctor ordered.
|
The Book |
Hachette Book Group |
September 2006 |
Audiobook / CD |
1594835624 |
Nonfiction / Humor |
More
at Amazon.com |
Excerpt |
NOTE: Some Sexual Content and Profanity
Holiday: All Jewish Holidays mentioned |
The Reviewer |
Leslie Halpern |
Reviewed 2006 |
NOTE: Reviewer Leslie
Halpern is the author of Reel Romance. The Lovers' Guide to the 100 Best Date Movies
and Dreams on Film. Coming Soon: A Writer's Guide to Fearless Interviews. |
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