Books of Jacob

Across Seven Borders, Five Languages, and Three Major Religions, Not Counting the Minor Sects. Told by the Dead, Supplemented by the Author, Drawing from a Range of Books, and Aided by Imagination, the Which Being the Greatest Natural Gift of Any Person. That the Wise Might Have It for a Record, That My Compatriots Reflect, Laypersons Gain Some Understanding, and Melancholy Souls Obtain Some Sligh

stozzer reviewed The Books of Jacob by Olga Tokarczuk

Epic and poetic

5 stars

This is a compelling historical novelisation following an 18th century heretical sect that romps around Europe, shining a light on Poland's complicated relations with its neighbours, examining the influence and fluidity of beliefs at the time, and breathing life into the fascinating characters pulled in the wake of the eponymous leader. It is a long read, but where another big book with so many names, families and renamings would test patient readers, the author's constellation style of pace and converging threads is precipitous and consistently rewards a good immersive page turning session. A massive, heavily researched project, transmuted into art.

Books of Jacob

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