Reviews

The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker

katieinca's review

3.0

I enjoyed the conceit, which set up some character study stuff you could certainly talk about in a book group. The first thing I read was the "About the Author" note, where she talks about how she's Jewish and her husband is Arab American, and when she started writing she was exploring stories from both of their family histories, and this pairing of the golem and the jinni is a very cool way to explore that, so I was psyched. And I really appreciated the author's research, especially having lived in southern Manhattan. I can see why people love it, but it stayed a little flat to me, and I was disappointed with what felt like a forced/orchestrated/clunky ending to tie it all up.

sophrolijkbooks's review against another edition

adventurous inspiring mysterious

5.0

mrbear's review

5.0

This book was quite excellent, and I could see myself recommending it a fair bit in the future. It is as close to a work of "pure fiction" as I have read in recent times, and reflecting on it brings to mind the aspects of Murakami and Marquez that I most appreciated. Perhaps the story's only shortcoming is that it takes too few risks - the book is not overly surprising, and could have certainly done with a stronger, more driving plot. It also has an ending that, while not weak, does not amaze the way one might expect given the buildup. In spite of all of this, the book gets full marks because it effectively conveys "wonder" - something that books are often hard pressed to do. It keeps you turning the pages more out of a growing desire to understand more and to watch the characters develop than to understand where the plot is going - the kind of book that you wish could go on forever (or, perhaps, be reality).

Overall highly recommended to fiction buffs, those who like old New York, or fans of "classic" literary excellence.

jaepeach's review

4.0

4.5 Beautiful writing, good characters, exciting story!

debitoni's review

emotional sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

enesven's review

5.0

Such a sweet story. It is a beautiful dip into culture and history.

zesteff's review

5.0

Flowing and well written, interesting characters, unexpected arc, well balanced emotions. I enjoyed reading this beautiful tale and will recommend it.

awwcripes's review

4.0

Flying through this. Great writing, interesting story, likeable characters.

Also,

GOLEM!

luckystar's review

lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No

4.5

halynah's review

2.0

So not worth the hype! The idea of the plot was interesting, but there were plenty of boring chapters and I couldn't click with any character - I was indifferent, what would happen to them. Disappointing!