In the first essay, titled between right and right, Oz presents a thesis that is difficult, essential and unpopular. He lays out a reality that few people are willing to accept. Oz maintains that both Israelis and Palestinians have significant and compelling histories, that both Israelis and Palestinians have proofs and reasons to inhabit the same plot of land.
The second essay carries the book’s title. In how to cure a fanatic Oz describes exactly how somebody becomes a fanatic. He does this by using his own experience and the experiences of Proffy, a character in his novel entitled Panther in the Basement.
The interview the most important section of this small work, challenges the author. The interviewer serves as a critical reader and asks Oz to consider the changes that have taken place since Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza and, if necessary, to adjust his critique.
To say that Amos Oz is a gifted writer and social critic is to understate the obvious. Whether the reader agrees with Amos Oz or not, one must admire his style, his thought and his humor.
