"My Name Is Asher Lev" is a novel by Chaim Potok that explores the life of a young Jewish boy, Asher Lev, who is torn between his artistic passion and his family's religious values. Growing up in a Hasidic community, Asher discovers his talent for painting at a young age, which brings him joy but also alienates him from his family's expectations. His art becomes a source of internal conflict as he grapples with his identity and the repercussions of pursuing a career in art.
The story delves into Asher's relationships with his family, particularly with his father, who struggles to understand his son's need for self-expression through art. Asher's mother, on the other hand, provides support but also feels the strain of living in a community that often views art with suspicion. As he matures, Asher faces critical choices that test his loyalty to his faith and his desire to be true to his artistic voice.