The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green
Neil Vallabh
The Unthinkable Thoughts of Jacob Green is a story about Jacob Green, a Jewish boy living in 1970s New Jersey with a verbally and mentally abusive father, a caring, calm mother, and a brother whom he wishes to be like someday. The book chronicles his growth from his prepubescent years throughout his teenage life. The book is told from Jacob's perspective. He gives the reader a very intimate view of his life. From fantasizing about his live-in babysitter, to thinking of things he would want to tell his father, the reader learns about Jacob in a funny, yet somewhat upsetting, way.
Jacob tries to make sense of all things plaguing his life. Puberty, life in a new town, life in a new school, and the tyrannical behavior of his father. The book mostly consists of Jacob explaining his feelings about key situations in his life. From the "unthinkable" things, such as telling his father he doesn't want to do something, to the not-so-pure thoughts he has about his live-in babysitter. Though his "unthinkable thoughts" appear to be troubling and at times, extremely funny, the book gives a personal view of a dysfunctional family and the problems that plague teenagers like Jacob.
Jacob's father is a controlling, sometimes insane, perfectionist parent who wants the best for his children, but doesn't exactly realize the pain he causes them. From griping about their behavior at his "Annie Hall" parties, to condemning them about everyday errors they make, he appears to be a troubled man having issues coping with being a parent.
Jacob's mother, Clair, is the opposite. She's caring, friendly, and nice. She cares deeply for her kids, and because of this, seeks to leave Abram. After returning to university to continue her studies, she develops a relationship with her professor. After announcing at one of Abram's party that she is having an affair and that they will be separating, Jacob's life is forever changed. The build up and intensity of this part of the book made for an interesting twist from the story and revealed a soft, sensitive side in Abram, as the reader would be able to witness his sudden change to an encouraging and loving parent.
Jacob's brother, Asher, is a rebellious teen who Jacob wishes to be like. He sees the rock and roll posters in Asher's room, the clothes Asher wears, and the people he hangs out with, and craves to one day become similar to his brother. However, when Asher receives a scholarship to a Rhode Island college and leaves him behind, Jacob feels betrayed and somewhat disappointed by his brothers choice.
Joshua Braff truly intercepted the thoughts of fictional Jacob Green in a surreal manner. As a teenager myself, I can relate to a lot of Jacob's thoughts and feelings. The book chronicles Jacob's long-going struggle between being the perfect Jewish son for his father and being a cool, punk rock teen like his brother. The book is a must read for any teenager, and it is very easy to relate to.