The Books of Jacob

Discover the captivating narrative of *The Books of Jacob*, a monumental trade paperback by Nobel laureate Olga Tokarczuk. This compelling historical fiction delves into the extraordinary life of Jacob Frank, a 18th-century Jewish figure shrouded in mystery and controversy. Set against the backdrop of Poland’s shifting religious landscapes, this 992-page literary masterpiece explores themes of identity, belief, and societal upheaval. As Jacob Frank reinvents himself through fervent spiritual experiences, he becomes both a revered messiah and a notorious heretic, drawing in a fervent following that challenges existing religious orders. Tokarczuk's brilliant storytelling illuminates the diverse perspectives of those surrounding Frank, from ardent supporters to cynical detractors, capturing the complexities of faith and the human condition. With its rich historical context and evocative prose, *The Books of Jacob* is essential reading for enthusiasts of Jewish history and those who appreciate thought-provoking literature. This brand new edition with ISBN 9781922330680 is published by The Text Publishing Company in 2021 and is perfect for your collection. Order your copy from Smartfox NZ today and immerse yourself in a world of dynamic transformation and profound exploration.
Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781922330680
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2021
Publisher: The Text Publishing Company
Pages: 992


Description:
As new ideas-and a new unrest-begin to sweep the Continent, a young Jew of mysterious origins arrives in a village in Poland. Visited by what seem to be ecstatic experiences, Jacob Frank casts a spell that attracts a fervent following. He reinvents himself again and again, converts to Islam and then Catholicism, is pilloried as a heretic and revered as the Messiah, and wreaks havoc on the conventional order, Jewish and Christian alike, with scandalous rumours of his sect's secret rituals and the spread of his iconoclastic beliefs.

The story of Frank-a real historical figure, a divisive yet charismatic man-is the perfect canvas for the genius and unparalleled reach of Olga Tokarczuk. Narrated through the perspectives of his contemporaries-those who revere him, those who revile him, the friend who betrays him, the lone woman who sees him for what he is-The Books of Jacob captures a world on the cusp of precipitous change, searching for certainty and longing for transcendence.