FEH

This memoir follows Shalom Auslander's journey to escape the biblical story of his upbringing, seeking to create a new narrative for himself and his family in FEH.

In FEH, Shalom Auslander shares a candid memoir detailing his quest to break free from the biblical narratives that shaped his upbringing. Raised in a dysfunctional Orthodox Jewish family in Monsey, New York, he grapples with the heavy burdens imposed by his alcoholic father, guilt-ridden mother, and a God that looms large and unforgiving. As he reaches middle age, Auslander realizes that the most daunting challenge he faces is not just the past, but the persistent story that has been ingrained in him since childhood—a tale that labels him as fallen, broken, and shameful.

The memoir chronicles Auslander's journey of self-discovery and transformation, as he strives to rewrite the narrative that has defined him for so long. This exploration is not just personal; it is universal, touching on themes of identity, faith, and the struggle to forge a new path. With a cast of intriguing figures, including Phillip Seymour Hoffman and a pastor named Steve, Auslander weaves humor and poignancy throughout his account, illustrating the absurdity of his experiences and the complexities of his relationships.

Ultimately, FEH is a reflection on the power of storytelling itself—how it can both bind and liberate us. As Auslander navigates the challenges of parenting and love, he confronts the possibility of passing down a different narrative to his children. With his characteristic wit and fearlessness, Auslander's memoir invites readers to ponder their own stories and the truths they choose to embrace.