My Name Is Asher Lev Summary

Asher Lev, a child prodigy in painting, lives in the Ladover Hasidic community led by the Rebbe. His father, Aryeh, serves as an emissary for the Rebbe, working extensively with Russia. His mother, Rivkeh, suffers a breakdown after her brother's death but regains her health and chooses to pursue a college education. As Rivkeh recovers, Asher forms relationships with Yudel Krinsky, a recent Russian immigrant, and his father, whose work in Russia captivates him. Later, Asher's father is asked to move to Vienna for his work, leaving a distraught Asher behind.

During Aryeh's absence, Asher and Rivkeh try to adjust to their new life. Asher's passion for art grows stronger, leading him to neglect his studies, draw controversial images of crucifixions and nudes, and face criticism from his teachers and father. When his father returns home temporarily, Asher promises to improve his academic performance. The following summer, Rivkeh joins her husband in Europe, leaving Asher with his Uncle Yitzchok. Asher also begins art lessons with renowned artist Jacob Kahn, under the Rebbe's instructions, undeterred by Kahn's attempts to discourage him from an artist's life.

As his skill progresses, Asher chooses to continue living with his uncle instead of joining his parents in Vienna. He also learns about the prospect of his own art show. His art journey continues alongside his high school studies, with weekend lessons from Kahn, and his first art show turns out to be a moderate success. After an unsuccessful attempt to move to Vienna due to health issues, Asher decides to travel to Europe, where he feels an intense connection to the art, particularly Michelangelo's Pietà. Back in Paris, he reflects on his life and decides to express his mother's pain through his art by using the symbol of the crucifixion. However, when he presents these paintings at a significant show in New York, the Ladover community and his parents are shocked and appalled, leading to his expulsion from the community and a return to Paris.