'All Afternoon': Feminism comes to River Ridge - book review

Susan Kleinman's novel, 'All Afternoon,' offers a poignant and nuanced look at the intersection of feminism and traditional religious life in the late 1970s. Set in the fictional suburban enclave of River Ridge, the book captures the subtle, yet profound, shifts occurring within Modern Orthodox communities as the broader social revolution of Women's Lib began to make its presence felt.

The protagonist, Marilyn Weisfeld, embodies the internal conflict many women of her generation faced. Devoted to her family and observant of Jewish law, she had set aside her own aspirations for marriage and motherhood. However, as the narrative unfolds, Marilyn's quiet dissatisfaction with her unfulfilling marriage becomes a catalyst for introspection. The novel masterfully portrays her journey as she grapples with the cost of her choices and the possibility of reclaiming a professional identity she once abandoned.

Kleinman's strength lies in her meticulous attention to detail, bringing the era and its cultural context to life. From the pop-culture references to the specific social dynamics within the community—gossipy Shabbat meals and competitive day school parent groups—the portrayal of River Ridge feels authentic. By placing Marilyn's awakening within this specific milieu, the author provides a unique lens through which to examine the challenges and triumphs of women seeking self-realization amidst deeply ingrained traditions. The novel resonates with a particular resonance for those familiar with the evolving landscape of observant Jewish life, highlighting how even within seemingly insular communities, the tide of change eventually arrives.

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slow in coming