Play Book Tag discussion

In 2013, the Play Book Tag Top 10 had one clear cut winner.

1. The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker.

I remember listening to this book soon after it was published and thinking it very fresh and original. While I wasn't sure I would like it, it turns out that the fusion of historical fiction and fantasy is one of my favorite genres now.

The story is based on two mythical creatures from Jewish and Syrian folklore who meet and become friends on 1899 New York City. The Golem, Chava, is a woman made from clay, designed by an evil rabbi to obey her husband's every command and anticipate his every wish. Her husband brings her to life on the ship from Poland to America. When he dies during the voyage, Chava must learn to build an independent life for herself in America. The Jinni, Ahmad, has been trapped by an evil wizard inside his flask for centuries. Accidentally released by a Syrian tinsmith in New York City, he discovers he is also trapped in human form by a metal band around his wrist.

Chava and Ahmad meet and begin a friendship. Told separately at first, the two story lines eventually merge together. Both Chava and Ahmad fear being discovered for what they really are, but both want to be true to their nature. Chava and Ahmad have to learn to trust each other in order to survive.

The Golem and the Jinni is a quiet, character driven story for the most part, filled with fascinating supporting characters. The Jewish and Syrian neighborhoods seemed very convincing to me and the author describes a very rich immigrant community. The Golem and the Jinni teaches us about the strengths and weaknesses of humanity and the clashes of good against evil. I very very caught up in their story.

When I originally listened to the audio, I felt like the story unfolded a bit too slowly and dragged in some places. I was halfway through before I felt really caught up in the story. I originally gave it four stars. While reading this in print for the PBT Anniversary I realized it was necessary to bring enough background into the story that it achieved maximum impact and emotion. I learned to appreciate this book more the second time around. It 's a five star read for me.

Fabulous Review! Have you read the Hidden Palace yet?

Loved this one too. Is The Hidden Place the sequel?

Yes, and was another 5 stars! Just read it in Nov/Dec.

I haven't read it yet but that was one of the reasons I wanted to reread this one. I read it so long ago that I only remembered the framework and felt like I would enjoy Hidden Palace more after the reread.