Structure

The author divides the memoir into nine titled chapters: "In Search of My Secret Power," "The Age of My Innocence," "The Dawning of Knowledge," "The Inferiority of My Connections," "Possessed of a Purpose," "Not Worth Fighting For," "Costly Ambitions," "Justice Prevails," and "Up in Arms." Each of these titles is inspired by the epigraph provided at the start of the corresponding chapter. The epigraphs are taken from books Deborah was reading during the period of her life she is describing in each given chapter. These titles and epigraphs not only illustrate her attachment to literature, but trace her gradual intellectual and emotional journey towards finding and securing her independence outside the Hasidic community. The nine chapters are bookended by an introductory prologue, and a closing epilogue and afterword. The prologue depicts her first meeting with her mother after leaving her former life and faith, and is closed...