The Rabbi and the Hit Man: A True Tale of Murder, Passion, and Shattered Faith : Book Review

"The Rabbi and the Hit Man" by Arthur J. Magida is a gripping true crime book that takes readers on a journey into the dark and shocking story of a respected rabbi's connection to a hit man. Set in a small town in upstate New York, this book explores the complexities of faith, morality, and the intricacies of the human condition.

At the center of the narrative is Rabbi Fred Neulander, a highly regarded spiritual leader known for his compassion and dedication to his community. However, his seemingly perfect life begins to unravel when he becomes entangled in a web of deceit and murder. As the evidence against Neulander begins to mount, readers are taken on a suspenseful ride to uncover the truth behind the crime.

What sets this book apart is Magida's skillful weaving together of various perspectives and interviews. By offering a multifaceted view of the events, he provides readers with a deeper understanding of the motivations and actions of both the rabbi and the hit man. Through thorough research and extensive interviews with key figures, Magida ensures that every angle of the story is explored.

Magida's writing style is engaging and objective, maintaining a balanced tone throughout the book. He presents the facts and intricacies of the case meticulously, allowing readers to form their own opinions. In addition to examining the criminal aspects of the story, Magida also delves into the psychological and emotional turmoil experienced by those involved, further adding complexity and depth to the narrative.

"The Rabbi and the Hit Man" is a thought-provoking exploration of a true crime that challenges our preconceived notions of faith and human nature. It is a compelling read for true crime enthusiasts and anyone interested in the complexities of morality and justice. With his meticulous research and storytelling skills, Magida has created a standout book in the genre, drawing readers in from the first page and leaving them questioning the nature of good and evil long after they've finished reading.

What are readers saying?

"The Rabbi and the Hit Man" by Arthur J. Magida is a non-fiction book that delves into the true story of Rabbi Fred J. Neulander, who became the target of a murder-for-hire plot orchestrated by a hitman named Len Jenoff. Reviews for the book have been mixed, with readers praising some aspects while highlighting some weaknesses.

Many reviewers commended Magida's meticulous research and thorough investigation into the case. They appreciated the level of detail provided, which allowed them to grasp the intricacies of the story. Several readers noted that the book reads like a suspenseful crime thriller, keeping them engrossed throughout.

Another aspect that garnered positive feedback was Magida's ability to present different perspectives on the case. By interviewing various individuals involved, including Rabbi Neulander, Len Jenoff, and law enforcement officials, Magida provided readers with a well-rounded view of the events.

However, some reviewers felt that the book focused too heavily on providing an objective account, neglecting emotional depth. They desired more exploration into the motivations and inner lives of the characters. Additionally, a few readers found the narrative structure confusing at times, as it occasionally jumped back and forth in time without clear transitions.

Another criticism was the writing style, with some reviewers finding it dry and academic. They believed that the book lacked storytelling elements that could have made the story more engaging and relatable to readers.

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