Sons of the 613 by Michael Rubens

  I intially chose this book because I find that I have limited choices in young adult literature that showcases a teen boy perspective.  I wanted to make sure that there were books like this in the library in case a guy ever decided to check something out, and I decided to read it because I was curious about what I would find.  I got an unexpected surprise.  Michael Rubens is a fluent author and was, for a long while, a producer on The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.
  Sons of the 613 is about Issac as he begins his journey to manhood, literally.  At the beginning of the book Issac is prepping for his Bar Mitzvah.  Later, his parents drop a bomb on him - they're leaving him at home alone for two weeks with his older brother Josh.  Issac freaks.  He and Josh aren't tight.  Josh is a mystery, an angry mystery at that, but as Issac tells us, he's also a "Super Jew".  So, at least Issac will get the help he needs with his studies before his big day, but Josh has other plans on how to turn Issac into a man.  And so the journey begins.
  Sons of the 613 is clever and entertaining.  Even though I started reading this book as part of my job I was quickly pleased that I did.  By the end I was in tears, but hey, most teenaged boys probably wouldn't have that same reaction (and if they did, they'd never admit it).  Highly recommended read, but I should note that there is quite a bit of offensive language.