Defending Identity

November 24, 2008
Sharansky compellingly argues that distinct group identities within a culture are an essential part of a successful democracy and that attempts to bleach out or deny identity can have catastrophic results. Much of his argument is shaped and funneled through his experience as a political prisoner in the Soviet gulags and later as a citizen and activist in Israel. Though one is inclined to ask if Sharansky means anything more with his usage of “identity” than religion, he still makes clear points about contemporary Jewish and Muslim identity. His most intriguing discussions center on the postidentity crisis that many of the developed nations find themselves facing. Stefan Rudnicki's deep voice enables a stronger foreboding tone for Sharansky's words. His light use of accents for quotes provides context without exaggeration. Most important, Rudnicki patiently works through the text with shifting emphasis and pauses to allow for listener understanding during the more cerebral elements of Sharansky's writings. A Perseus hardcover.

Sharansky and Weiss built this spirited defense of Israel as a Jewish state on the foundation of Sharanky's personal experience as a Soviet citizen, dissident, and prisoner and as an Israeli politician. The first-person narrative forms a single structured argument and should be heard from beginning to end. Stefan Rudnicki's narration is clear and well paced. His voice, which seems somehow to capture the whole of human experience in every sentence, gives life to Sharansky's logic. After nine years in Soviet prison and many more defending Israel against enemies and detractors, Sharansky still maintains his sense of humor and of hope. F.C. (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine