The Seven Good Years
Over seven years following the birth of his son Lev, Israeli writer Etgar Keret chronicles the messy, tender, and darkly humorous intersection of family life and the constant chaos of his homeland. From navigating terror attacks while waiting for his son’s birth to debating Lev’s future military service with his wife, Keret weaves small, intimate moments into the backdrop of rocket strikes, political tensions, and personal loss—including his father’s battle with cancer. He shares absurd encounters with persistent telemarketers, surreal literary festival experiences across the globe, and his quiet quest to connect with his Jewish roots in Poland. Through it all, Keret’s signature wit turns anxiety into laughter, framing life’s biggest fears and smallest joys through the eyes of a father learning to protect his child while embracing the uncertainty of living in a conflict zone. This collection is a raw, heartfelt look at finding light in the storm, one chaotic, beautiful year at a time.