This prize-winning satirical novel chronicles a scandal that envelops a prominent Jerusalem family and leads to its downfall. Told largely through the eyes of one of her three children, the story begins when Elisheva Fogel, depicted as a well-known figure among Israel's peace activists of the early 2000s, is accused of embezzling millions from the think tank she directs. Family members try to close ranks, but old and new grievances surface, and their reactions are driven by conflicting loyalties, suspicion, as well as fear of losing their own financial and social capital. The allegation and its repercussions expose not only cracks in the family, but the hypocrisies of Israel's secular Ashkenazi elite, along with its moral and political decline. This novel has author Noa Yedlin's hallmark traits: richly detailed scenes and settings, biting humor, razor-sharp social critique, all propelled by an immersive story.

Reading group guide to Happy New Years is available for download free of charge at newvesselpress.com.