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As the Matzo Ball Turns
Jozef Rothstein arrived from small-town Pennsylvania in Hollywood with stars in his eyes. Ten years later, he left with those same stars circling around his head. Reeling from the humbling routine of an actor looking for work—any work, even for a chewing gum commercial, clad as a beaver in Speedo trunks and a Scooby-Doo cape while surrounded by beautiful women dressed to the nines—Rothstein found humor the best solution to saving his sanity. Meanwhile, his money-generating job paralleled his dream employment. Rothstein’s ten-year sentence as a waiter in a Jewish deli frequented by Tinsel Town’s celebrities gave him more of the same ego pummeling, doled out in equal measure by customers and managers, but with a twist. The occasional hit men and drivebys added just enough excitement to make near-death experiences an unwelcome reality. Here, too, laughter saves the day, and Rothstein gleefully shares the inspirations for a never-ending comedy of terrors. Just as frequently, his own missteps find him flat-face on the pavement, sharing space with customers familiar to the world. And yes, Rothstein does name names. Find your favorites in As the Matzo Ball Turns and see Hollywood stars—and waiters everywhere—in a whole new light.
- GenresHumor
244 pages, Paperback
First published March 20, 2012
1 person is currently reading
84 people want to read
About the author
Jozef Rothstein
1 book2 followersHailing from the mountains of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania this born entertainer has been creating original works since he can remember. Unfortunately, a recent head injury has caused memory lapses, sweaty palms, and body spasms but he still claims he's been doing it awhile anyway.
According to a guy who thinks he was in his acting class, Mr. Rothstein allegedly threw caution to the wind and made a break for Hollywood where he spent ten long, grueling, frustrating, stroke inducing years hoping to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame while working as a waiter. When his biological clock notified him that his decade in Tinsel Town was up, Mr. Rothstein retreated to the backwoods of Pennsylvania where he lived in a cave while penning the details of his Hollywood experience.
Mr. Rothstein's first book "As the Matzo Ball Turns" earned him a Maroon and Gold Quill from the Friends of the Bloomsburg University Library Organization and the off the wall satire was a finalist in the 2013 Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Award in the humor category. The novel was then adapted into a musical which opened in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania in January 2017. The show went on to become a Top Pick at the 2017 Philadelphia Fringe Festival and is currently making preparations to travel to New York City.
This self professed talent has many projects in development and he is expected to release his next book sometime before his death.
According to a guy who thinks he was in his acting class, Mr. Rothstein allegedly threw caution to the wind and made a break for Hollywood where he spent ten long, grueling, frustrating, stroke inducing years hoping to earn a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame while working as a waiter. When his biological clock notified him that his decade in Tinsel Town was up, Mr. Rothstein retreated to the backwoods of Pennsylvania where he lived in a cave while penning the details of his Hollywood experience.
Mr. Rothstein's first book "As the Matzo Ball Turns" earned him a Maroon and Gold Quill from the Friends of the Bloomsburg University Library Organization and the off the wall satire was a finalist in the 2013 Foreword Reviews Book of the Year Award in the humor category. The novel was then adapted into a musical which opened in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania in January 2017. The show went on to become a Top Pick at the 2017 Philadelphia Fringe Festival and is currently making preparations to travel to New York City.
This self professed talent has many projects in development and he is expected to release his next book sometime before his death.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 7, 2024
The back cover comments of, "As the Matzo Ball Turns" promises memoir, restaurant experiences, Hollywood stories and plenty of humor. Rothstein delivers on most of those promises, especially in the first half of the book. He has an eye for detail, a scathing, comedic pen, and an astute, insider's reflective knowledge on the behavior of humans expecting to be served hand and foot whenever they dine out. Reading his accounts of all the craziness that transpires in the restaurant biz brought out some good laughs as well as memories of my own experiences working in food service during my younger days.
Although he has no problem naming names when it comes to celebs who dined in the Jewish deli where he worked for ten years, curiously, Rothstein refrains from mentioning the name of the deli itself. Without a doubt, it was Jerry's Famous Deli in the Studio City neighborhood of Los Angeles. Sadly, the deli closed permanently in 2020 due to COVID. While I found some of the book entertaining, I thought the subject matter had a lot of potential but the writing didn't quite reach it.
The book is full of lengthy paragraphs where shorter would have been better. It needed more proofing and editing. Those were minor speed bumps for me. I enjoyed most of the humor until the author began describing the gays who worked at the restaurant. He came off as homophobic instead of humorous. And from there, the memoir takes a dark turn when he describes fantasies of machine gunning down restaurant patrons who complain too much. Perhaps this and some other aspects of the writing were meant as tongue-in-cheek comedic wit but they come off as disturbing. The end could have also used a little more care and thought. The book just sort of stops instead of ends.
If you're interested in celebrities and the trials of trying to make it in Hollywood, all through a comedic lens, I recommend giving this selection a read. I was more interested in the restaurant stories and in that sense, I got what I came for and do not regret my purchase.
Although he has no problem naming names when it comes to celebs who dined in the Jewish deli where he worked for ten years, curiously, Rothstein refrains from mentioning the name of the deli itself. Without a doubt, it was Jerry's Famous Deli in the Studio City neighborhood of Los Angeles. Sadly, the deli closed permanently in 2020 due to COVID. While I found some of the book entertaining, I thought the subject matter had a lot of potential but the writing didn't quite reach it.
The book is full of lengthy paragraphs where shorter would have been better. It needed more proofing and editing. Those were minor speed bumps for me. I enjoyed most of the humor until the author began describing the gays who worked at the restaurant. He came off as homophobic instead of humorous. And from there, the memoir takes a dark turn when he describes fantasies of machine gunning down restaurant patrons who complain too much. Perhaps this and some other aspects of the writing were meant as tongue-in-cheek comedic wit but they come off as disturbing. The end could have also used a little more care and thought. The book just sort of stops instead of ends.
If you're interested in celebrities and the trials of trying to make it in Hollywood, all through a comedic lens, I recommend giving this selection a read. I was more interested in the restaurant stories and in that sense, I got what I came for and do not regret my purchase.
April 26, 2023
I found this book in a GoodReads list about different jobs that are out there. I really enjoyed Jozef’s story because it had a little bit of everything, but I enjoyed hearing most about his job as a server and the people he dealt with. There were parts of the book where I feel like he thought highly of himself (acting ability, studios supposedly stealing his story ideas), other times when he was self-righteous (the book got a little too political towards the end), but it is Josef’s story and I appreciate him sharing it with us.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 23, 2018
As The Matzo Ball Turns is both a humorous and insightful view into the Hollywood scene. The prose is reminiscent to the style of satirical columnist Dave Barry, while offering a sober glimpse into the harsh realities of Hollywood and the entertainment industry. It’s also a powerful testament to pursuing one’s dream regardless of obstacles and realizing when it’s time to refocus one’s priorities with no regrets. Excellent read!!
June 9, 2019
"As the Matzo Ball Turns" is a side-splittingly funny read. I became invested in Rothstein's adventures in Hollywood and did not want to put the book down. Not only is the book filled with humor, but it is an insight into the struggle of trying to make it in Tinseltown. As I was reading, I felt like I was truly experiencing the highs and lows of the author's journey. Rothstein's unapologetic honesty and sense of humor had me laughing until I cried. 10/10
February 22, 2018
Fabulous book and musical. I love it. Very hilarious and NOT a waste of anything. If you have a sense of humor, you'll find the book and the musical to be funny. I would definitely recommend reading the book and seeing the musical next time they have shows. The musical has improved a lot since the start. The songs are very good and catchy... I've been singing them since September.
February 23, 2018
As The Matzo Ball Turns is an Absolutely great read from beginning to end! Jozef finds a perfect combination of comedy and truth to shine light on the his endeavors of pursing his dreams of making it in Hollywood. Have to admit after each chapter it gets harder and harder to put down! Inspirational book and worth every penny.
June 13, 2019
this is an excellent book ! captivating and mesmerizing how the story of truth unfolds before your eyes . if you want something different then your average joe book...this is it .I highly recommend this book and especially to anyone who is in the restaurant business . jozef encapsulates passion , inquisitive thought , heartache , determination and much more in this phenomenal read.
February 24, 2018
As the matzo ball turns is a great book ! Funny as heck and very insightful. As an avid reader myself I would definitely recommend this awesome book !
November 7, 2016
Didn't read this novel, but rather the musical adaptation Jozef Rothstein wrote.
Worst. Play. Ever.
I assume the book is just like the musical but longer. Perhaps the book is better because it has more room to write about character motivations or histories, but the musical is a mess with lots of questions left unanswered, a plethora of typos, and songs that neither rhyme nor have any discernable rhythm.
It's supposed to be a comedy, but it was never funny and was several times just downright offensive. The main character speaks to a personified subconscious (REALLY?!) and has a bunch of "wacky" misadventures. The title made me think it would be some Jewish family/soap opera comedy, but instead, it's all about some actor (named Jozef Rothstein) who is a brilliant writer (REALLY?!?!) who gets chewed up and spat out by the Hollywood "machine." That's not to mention the crazy political drama added into the final third of the show...
The musical is full of typos and has more scenes than any upcoming indie play should. The first act is ~65 pages and the second act is ~85 pages (the exact opposite breakdown you want in a comedy/play). With scene changes, this will probably be a 3+ hour show (at least an hour, if not 90 minutes, too long). If I had to guess, the author has never had anyone but friends or family read the play (or leave reviews here). It needs some HEAVY critiquing, editing, and cutting/rewriting.
If the author spent 10 years of his life in Hollywood and all he got out of it was this "lousy book" (his words), then that was a real waste of a decade...
Worst. Play. Ever.
I assume the book is just like the musical but longer. Perhaps the book is better because it has more room to write about character motivations or histories, but the musical is a mess with lots of questions left unanswered, a plethora of typos, and songs that neither rhyme nor have any discernable rhythm.
It's supposed to be a comedy, but it was never funny and was several times just downright offensive. The main character speaks to a personified subconscious (REALLY?!) and has a bunch of "wacky" misadventures. The title made me think it would be some Jewish family/soap opera comedy, but instead, it's all about some actor (named Jozef Rothstein) who is a brilliant writer (REALLY?!?!) who gets chewed up and spat out by the Hollywood "machine." That's not to mention the crazy political drama added into the final third of the show...
The musical is full of typos and has more scenes than any upcoming indie play should. The first act is ~65 pages and the second act is ~85 pages (the exact opposite breakdown you want in a comedy/play). With scene changes, this will probably be a 3+ hour show (at least an hour, if not 90 minutes, too long). If I had to guess, the author has never had anyone but friends or family read the play (or leave reviews here). It needs some HEAVY critiquing, editing, and cutting/rewriting.
If the author spent 10 years of his life in Hollywood and all he got out of it was this "lousy book" (his words), then that was a real waste of a decade...
May 29, 2013
Laugh out loud funny. I just joined Goodreads and was excited to see this book on here. A friend picked it up at a book signing by the author and told me I just had to read it. Once I picked it up I could not put it down. It's rare when anything makes me laugh to the point of tears but there were moments in this book that did just that.
And along with hilarious observations of the nightmare that can be customer service the author's description of Hollywood and his pursuit thereof, is incredibly interesting. It's the Hollywood story we don't see on the E! Channel. I love this book!
Btw if anyone has any recommendations please drop me a line. I am hoping to find some rare gems on this site. Thanks!!!!
And along with hilarious observations of the nightmare that can be customer service the author's description of Hollywood and his pursuit thereof, is incredibly interesting. It's the Hollywood story we don't see on the E! Channel. I love this book!
Btw if anyone has any recommendations please drop me a line. I am hoping to find some rare gems on this site. Thanks!!!!
January 24, 2013
Extremely hilarious! As the Matzo Ball Turns literally had me roaring with laughter. In this book, Jozef Rothstein demonstrates his ability to bring out strong emotion in the reader while telling the story of his ten year attempt at fame and fortune. Working as a server in a well known Jewish deli, Jozef had some very interesting experiences to say the least. The tale as only he can tell it will be enjoyed by anyone who has a sense of humor. A must read for all performers. Also, the individuals in food service who are quite often taken for granted.
May 30, 2013
I thought this book was fantastic! It hit on all of my emotions. It made me laugh the most but it also had adventure, ( I will be staying away from bridges) frustration, ( have you ever worked in a restaurant? Let alone a crazy busy Jewish deli in the middle of Hollywood with a bunch of other haggard actors waiting for their shot and the closest they get is the random famous costumers whom just add to an insane day?) and a pitch of tear jerking too. ( love the puppies!!) Perfect pool/beach read!!
June 11, 2013
I was laughing so hard tears were rolling down my cheeks by page 5! This book is so well written! Jozef Rothstein is a wonderful storyteller. This book is an easy read filled with hilarity that will make you want to tie on your apron and head to your nearest Jewish deli. The perfect read for anyone who had worked in the hospitality industry, in Hollywood or just always wanted to know what it would be like to be involved in either. "As The Matzo Ball Turns" is a page turner and if you are anything like me you will read it more than once...anytime you need a good laugh!
January 12, 2014
This book is is truly an extraordinary piece of writing!! "As the Motzo Ball Turns" is a funny, insightful and a fascinating window into one mans journey to make it in the den of evil we know as Hollywood. His amazing recall of his experience working as a waiter in a Jewish deli included his daily encounters with many infamous people,crazy customers and colorful co-workers that had me laughing for hours! It is the unexpected combination of witty and realistic humanity that makes this book endearing. I am hoping for a sequel!! I highly recommend this book.
June 19, 2013
This may be the best book I've read all year. Not only is it different and creative, but it definitely shows off a wonderful sense of humor. "As The Matzo Ball Turns" gives a great insight as to the true life of a rising actor. More authors should use this style of writing. I would recommend this book to anyone looking for an entertaining and laughable book!
July 2, 2013
This was a fun book. It was easy to read and highly entertaining. As a waitress in the restaurant business I can totally relate. After finishing this book I now want to go to Hollywood to visit and experience it first hand. Reading it again.
October 31, 2012
Funny, engrossing and a lot of heart! Thoroughly enjoyed it!
January 6, 2013
Hilarious romp through the eyes of an aspiring actor turned food service worker. This is a book anyone can relate to! One of the funniest I've read with excellent writing. Well worth my time.
January 30, 2013
I really enjoyed this book. It was a page turner. I recommend it to everyone.
It made me laugh hard. So much emotion.
It was a " Good Read"!
It made me laugh hard. So much emotion.
It was a " Good Read"!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews