Picture a Philadelphia storyteller who brought an Orthodox Jewish teen’s world to life with wit and heart—meet Isaac Blum! A writer and educator, Blum burst onto the young adult (YA) scene with his debut novel, The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen, a National Book Award-longlisted gem that tackles identity, antisemitism, and first love with humor and authenticity. His unique voice, shaped by years teaching in Orthodox Jewish schools, makes him a vital force in Jewish representation in YA fiction.
Blum’s stories aren’t just page-turners; they’re windows into the nuanced lives of teens navigating faith and modernity. With a knack for blending laughter with heavy truths, he’s quickly become a must-read for fans of heartfelt, thought-provoking YA. Ready to dive into his world?
The Making of Isaac Blum
Hailing from Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania, Isaac Blum grew up straddling Jewish and secular worlds, a balance that would later define his writing. With an MFA in Creative Writing from Rutgers-Camden, he honed his craft while teaching English at colleges, public schools, and Orthodox Jewish yeshivas. These experiences immersed him in the lives of teens grappling with tradition and the modern world, sparking the ideas behind his novels. His love for sports, humor, and books that reveal “something true about the world” also shaped his storytelling style, infusing it with warmth and relatability.
Isaac Blum’s Unforgettable Stories
Blum’s debut, The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen (2022), follows Yehuda “Hoodie” Rosen, an Orthodox Jewish teen in a new, mostly non-Jewish town. When Hoodie falls for the mayor’s daughter amid rising antisemitic violence, he’s caught between love and loyalty. Critics praised its “witty, profound” take on cross-cultural friendship, earning it the William C. Morris YA Debut Award and a National Book Award long-listing. Blum’s voice—sarcastic yet soulful—brings Hoodie’s world to life, from kosher Starburst cravings to Talmudic debates.
His second novel, The Judgment of Yoyo Gold (2024), dives deeper into Orthodox Jewish life through Yoyo, a rabbi’s daughter questioning her community’s hypocrisies. Using TikTok to voice her frustrations, Yoyo navigates faith, friendship, and romance. Described as “smart and powerful,” it’s been lauded by NPR and Kirkus as a standout. Blum’s style shines here, blending humor with raw honesty to explore universal themes of belonging and self-discovery.
Both novels reflect Blum’s ability to craft authentic characters who face real-world issues—like antisemitism and cultural tension—while staying relatable to teens of all backgrounds. His immersive depictions of Orthodox Judaism, paired with a playful tone, make his work both educational and wildly entertaining.
Why Isaac Blum Matters
Isaac Blum’s impact lies in his fearless exploration of Jewish identity in YA fiction, a genre where Orthodox perspectives are rare. His novels offer mirrors for Jewish teens and windows for others, fostering empathy and understanding. By addressing antisemitism with nuance and humor, he confronts timely issues without preaching, making his stories resonate across cultures. Awards and critical acclaim aside, Blum’s legacy is in the teens who see themselves in Hoodie and Yoyo, finding courage to navigate their own paths.
- Born: Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania
- Key Works: The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen (2022), The Judgment of Yoyo Gold (2024)
- Awards: William C. Morris YA Debut Award (2023), National Book Award Longlist (2022)
- Fun Fact: Blum dislikes eggplant for its “gross” texture!
Snag The Life and Crimes of Hoodie Rosen and dive into Isaac Blum’s witty, heartfelt YA world! You’ll laugh, cringe, and maybe crave some kosher snacks along the way.