77 pages 2 hours read

Olga Tokarczuk

The Books of Jacob

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2014

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Books of Jacob by Olga Tokarczuk follows the journey of Jacob Frank, a Polish Jewish man who claimed to be the Messiah in the 1800s, and his followers as they navigate religious conversions, persecution, and the complexities of faith across Eastern Europe and the Ottoman Empire. Topics include sexual violence, violence, and religious persecution.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Books of Jacob by Olga Tokarczuk impresses with its ambitious scope, blending historical fiction and philosophical musings. Praised for its intricate narrative and richly crafted characters, it can, however, challenge readers with its dense, sprawling structure. Fans of profound, immersive literature will find it rewarding, though it may daunt those seeking a lighter read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Books of Jacob?

The ideal reader of The Books of Jacob by Olga Tokarczuk is an avid explorer of intricate narratives, historical contexts, and philosophical themes. Fans of Umberto Eco's The Name of the Rose and Hilary Mantel's Wolf Hall will find this novel's rich tapestry and profound depth particularly captivating.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Auto/Biographical Fiction

Jewish Literature

Topics

Religion / Spirituality

History: World

Themes

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies

Values/Ideas: Power & Greed