Shtiebel nu Goyim: The house of the Gentile

Prologue: A Bond Beyond Time

Boston, 1920s. A city alive with the rhythms of swing music, the scent of fresh bread from the bakeries, and the hum of different languages echoing through the streets. Among the tightly packed neighborhoods, where families from all over the world had come in search of a better life, two boys-one Catholic, one Jewish-found friendship in the most unexpected of places.

Tommy Capo and Ari Matchmaker grew up side by side, their homes just a door apart. Their families had come from opposite corners of Europe-one from the sunlit shores of Sicily, the other from the old cities of Germany. Their traditions, their prayers, even their languages were different. Yet, none of that mattered when they ran through the cobblestone streets, played stickball in the alleys, or sat together on the front steps of their homes, dreaming of the future.

Through childhood mischief, holiday celebrations, and the challenges of growing up in a rapidly changing world, their bond only deepened. They faced the trials of adolescence together, shared dreams of adventure, and stood by each other when the world seemed uncertain.

But as time marched forward, history had its own plans. The world beyond their neighborhood grew darker, and war loomed on the horizon. When duty called, Tommy and Ari answered-finding themselves in a war that would test not only their courage but the very foundation of their friendship.

This is their story. A story of two boys who became brothers, of laughter and loss, of love and sacrifice. A story that proves that even in the face of war, faith, and distance, true friendship never fades.

Because some bonds are stronger than time itself.

And a special thank you to my Rabbi Beth Davidson
her husband Dr.Cliff Lopate
and my good friend Dr Sol Rockenmacher

thank you to all who served our country
thank you and god bless