Goodbye, Columbus

Brief Overview

«Goodbye, Columbus» is the story of a brief romance between Neil Klugman, a young man from a working-class background, and Brenda Patimkin, a girl from a wealthy Jewish family. Neil works at a public library in Newark, New Jersey, and lives with his aunt and uncle. Brenda is a college student living in a luxurious suburban home. Their relationship is challenged by social and cultural differences, leading to tension and conflicts. Ultimately, their romance ends when Brenda decides to break it off after her parents discover her sexual relationship with Neil. The book explores themes of class differences, Jewish identity, and personal ambitions.