Sam Levenson (1) (1911–1980)

Born in 1911, Sam Levenson grew up in East Harlem, a slum of New York, before and during the depression. His parents raised eight children as immigrant Jews. Sam writes in his book, "We had plenty: plenty of relatives, neighbors, borders, janitors, landlords, holidays, cockroaches,cats. dogs, music, books, romance, fights, parties, weddings medals, illnesses, politician, superstitions and junk."

The author became a school teacher, then a radio/television personality. This is his memoir. First person account of a rich childhood in a blighted urban slum. Very amusing, filled with ironic observations.

"Lead us not into temptation. Just tell us where it is; we'll find it."

"It was on my fifth birthday that Papa put his hand on my shoulder and said, 'Remember, my son, if you ever need a helping hand, you'll find one at the end of your arm.'"… (more)

I'm including this little book in my reviews because it is such a gem. Anyone raising children today would be comforted by the story of Sam Levenson's growing up in New York before and during the depression. He was one of eight children. Sam writes in his book, "We had plenty: plenty of relatives, neighbors, borders, janitors, landlords, holidays, cockroaches,cats. dogs, music, books, romance, fights, parties, weddings medals, illnesses, politician, superstitions and junk. According to the Constitution we were first class citizens, but we could only afford second-class merchandise." Imagine, mentioning the Constitution without going on a hatred rant. How different were those times!

For anyone who doesn't know, Sam Levenson was a teacher for fifteen years in the New York school system before he became a radio, televion personality and writer. He had a very strict Jewish childhood that he lovingly writes about without bitterness, and with tremendous humor. He was a gracious and rare individual. He loved and respected his parents. He credits them with doing the very best they could with the limited resources they had. He adored his wife and credits her with being his very first consultant in writing his book.

My copy of Everyting But Money is tattered, and itself has seen some hard times. I loved this book, and hope that I fall apart before it does.

Thank you, Sam and God bless you for sharing your story with us. Shalom.… (more)