Neal Goldstein - The Lantzmen
It's 1921, the European continent is suffering the upheaval and consequences of World War I. The post war climate was especially dangerous for minority populations, who were blamed for the excesses of those in power whose greed and lust were responsible for the devastation they had wrought.
In this chaos, two fifteen-year-old boys, one emigrating from Berlin with his family, and the other making the journey on his own from a shtetl in the Russian Pale, meet while boarding the boat to America. The only thing they have in common is their Jewish religion and their hope for a better life for themselves and their families.
This is the story of Israel Shapiro and David Goodman, neither of whom spoke a word of English when they stepped off the boat at Ellis Island, and how, with determination, hard work, intelligence, and chutzpa, and the help of a black man who shined shoes, built a multi-million dollar enterprise in the span of their lifetimes.
'The Lantzmen' is really about the American dream. A place where immigrants and a marginalized minority population were given the opportunity and freedom to overcome the obstacles of prejudice and ignorance and make their mark. Once upon a time in America, this was possible, and we hope it will be again.
The Review:
Legacy Author Neal Goldstein - The Lantzmen
Release Date: 09/1/2026
Genre: #Fiction #drama #immigrant #heritage #Jewish
Guest Appearance on Amy's Bookshelf Reviews & Podcast: 9/13/2026 630PM EST/EDT
Reviews to Date: 5
5+ Stars
Neal Goldstein writes an incredible immigrant and American Dream story.
In The Lantzmen, the reader is brought into the life of Israel Shapiro and David Goodman, neither of whom spoke a word of English when they stepped off the boat at Ellis Island, and how, with determination, hard work, intelligence, and chutzpa, built a multi-million dollar enterprise. Lantzmen, if you aren't familiar with Jewish or Yiddish culture and terms, means two fellow Jews who grew up in the same Eastern European shtetl. I am a big fan of Neal Goldstein and want to read whatever this author writes. This story is unlike anything he has ever written before, and it is really a story that needed to be told. The characters are relatable, and come from a place of heart, soul, and perseverance of life and love. David and Izzy's journey brings to light the hardships, prejudice, and resilience of Jewish immigrants. The story spans from preWWII immigration through the late 20th and early 21st centuries, showing how each generation adapts to new challenges. It is definitely a 5 plus star read. This story is heartfelt & inspirational. The author's passion leaps off the pages, that this reader kept turning until the end.
