A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
408
Novel • Fiction
•
Jewish Literature•
Historical FictionEastern Europe • Early 20th Century
•
Hate & Anger•
Gender Identity•
World History•
Religion & Spirituality2022
Levine Querido
YA
14-18 years
In Sacha Lamb’s debut YA fantasy novel, When the Angels Left the Old Country, the demon Little Ash and the angel Uriel leave their small shtetl to find Essie, a girl who disappeared en route to America. Joined by Rose, they navigate the perils of immigration and face evil forces, all while growing closer and learning to embrace their identities. The book includes descriptions of violence, prejudice, and antisemitism.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Emotional
Adventurous
4,440 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
When the Angels Left the Old Country by Sacha Lamb blends Jewish folklore with a queer coming-of-age tale. Reviewers praise its rich, nuanced characters and evocative storytelling. However, some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it is heralded for its compelling narrative and cultural depth, though a few readers may be deterred by its slower sections.
A reader who enjoys When the Angels Left the Old Country by Sacha Lamb would likely appreciate historical novels with a mix of magical realism and Jewish cultural elements. Fans of Michael Chabon's The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay or Markus Zusak's The Book Thief would find this book compelling.
4,440 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
An angelic being who transforms significantly throughout the narrative, gaining a name, free will, and human-like qualities such as experiencing desire and emotion. Uriel's journey is marked by a growing connection with Little Ash.
A human adolescent navigating her LGBTQIA+ identity, motivated initially by anger and a desire for revenge. Her journey includes self-discovery and personal growth, which is further enriched by her interactions with Little Ash and Uriel.
A secondary character who offers wisdom and guidance to Little Ash, Uriel, and Rose on their voyage. Known for her morally nuanced perspective, she provides a human counterbalance to the otherwise supernatural elements.
A strong and independent girl working for Mr. Boaz, who becomes a pivotal character in the lives of Rose, Little Ash, and Uriel. Her involvement in the strike showcases her commitment to her community.
A ghost from Rose's hometown who transforms into an antagonist, initially appearing benevolent but later becoming a dybbuk seeking vengeance. His journey highlights the challenges of reconciling past lives with the new world.
An antagonist who manipulates immigrants by making them indebted and exploiting their vulnerabilities. His connections to Mr. Boaz and the factory system complicate the lives of the main characters.
An Irish American gangster and formidable antagonist who represents the dangers of greed and violence in the new world. His threatening presence exacerbates the challenges faced by Little Ash, Uriel, and Rose.
408
Novel • Fiction
•
Jewish Literature•
Historical FictionEastern Europe • Early 20th Century
•
Hate & Anger•
Gender Identity•
World History•
Religion & Spirituality2022
Levine Querido
YA
14-18 years
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 10,950+ additional titles.