# House Arrest

By Noa Yedlin

Profile: https://hahafiction.com/books/house-arrest-3a30a5bc/

An embezzlement accusation threatens Elisheva Fogel’s standing at the Jerusalem think tank she runs. Her three grown children have to decide what to believe about their mother while old resentments and anxiety about the family’s reputation crowd into the argument.

## What makes it funny?

The Fogels’ good opinion of themselves is part of the joke. Even their restrained taste can become a display of superiority: Barak pictures neighboring houses judging his parents’ home, then finds its furnishings just as intent on making a statement.

### The comedy at work

Yedlin gives social vanity an architectural form. Houses seem to sneer and possessions perform modesty, making the family’s efforts to appear principled look increasingly elaborate.

### Try this if…

For readers drawn to family arguments, class-conscious satire and people finding flattering explanations for their own behavior.

### Good to know

The English translation is by Shira Atik and Evan Fallenberg. Financial corruption and the strain it puts on family loyalties drive the story.

## What to expect

- Genre: Contemporary & literary
- On the shelf: Family comedy
- Kind of humor: Dark comedy · Dry wit · Satire
- Format: Novel
- Length: 424 pages

## A few distinguishing details

- A respected Jerusalem matriarch under financial scrutiny
- Sibling grievances sharpened by a public scandal
- Family status reflected in houses and furnishings

## Sources & further reading

- Publisher: [Altneuland Press listing for House Arrest by Noa Yedlin](https://www.altneuland-press.com/en-books/house-arrest)
- Publisher: [New Vessel Press 2026–27 catalogue listing for House Arrest by Noa Yedlin](https://newvesselpress.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/NVP-Catalogue-2026-27.pdf)
- Publisher: [Publisher and excerpt](https://newvesselpress.com/books/house-arrest)