The Chosen is a powerful story about Danny Saunders and Reuven Malter whose relationship is tenuous at best in its initial stages. A tragic accident leads to new insights that each boy gains about the other. Along with the evolution of their relationship is the presence of the boys' fathers who, though Jewish, represents polarized sects of Judaism. The climax of the novel is riveting and presents the reader with an eloquent perspective of love and forgiveness.
Chaim Potok Background Information:
http://potok.lasierra.edu/ is Chaim Potok's Home Page, laden with biographical information, including publication details.
http://potok.lasierra.edu/Potok.Buning.html has significant biographical information. It includes some analyses of his trilogy -- The Chosen, The Promise, and My Name is Asher Lev.