In AD 70, when the Second Temple was destroyed, a handful of visionaries saved Judaism by reinventing it, taking what had been a national religion and turning it into an idea. Whenever a Jew studied-wherever he was-he would be in the holy city, and his faith preserved. But, in our own time, Zionists have turned the book back into a temple, and unlike an idea, a temple can be destroyed.
"[Israel Is Real] accomplishes the miraculous. It made a subject that has vexed me since early childhood into a riveting story . . . by narrating the oft-told saga of the Jews in a fresh and engaging fashion. Provocative and entertaining … Cohen brings tough love to Judaism and modern Israel."
Tony Horowitz, The New York Times Book Review
"A sweeping and impressionistic saga . . . [which] also happens to be a page-turning delight to read. What other book about Zionist history has ever included references to "Howl," "Goodfellas," Joseph Mitchell, and Willie Dixon? I commend and admire this book."
Samuel G Freedman, Chicago Tribune
"Cohen is a masterful and slyly provocative writer who marches boldly into the most controversial issues posed by the existence of Israel. Blending historical narrative with contemporary reportage, Israel Is Real makes an argument that cannot be ignored. Along the way, Cohen establishes himself as being among the most talented essayists of his generation."
