The Jews of Chicago: From Shtetl to Suburb

Great description of when I grew up in Chicago (1932-1952), which I left for the Air Force in 1952. Rarely visited after that, but found great changes when I did visit. I enjoyed particulary the maps and pictures of how the city was while I was maturing and going to school. I recommend this book for anyone living there now or in the past.

As a former Chicagoan, I found the book to be most informative as well as interesting. The book was thoroughly researched and well presented. Although I grew up in the Jewish community of Chicago, there were many historical facts that I had no prior knowledge of. One story that I found particularly interesting involved the Great Chicago Fire. The fire actually started on the eve of the Jewish Holiday of Simchat Torah. During this holiday, the Torah scrolls are danced with in the streets. The fact that the scrolls were outside when the fire broke out may have actually saved many lives, as well as the Torah scrolls. Cutler's book made me aware of the rich cultural tapestry that formed Chicago's Jewish community. Even non- Chicagoans will find this book enlightening.