the golem and the jinni by helene wecker

There isn't enough drama or action to move the plot forward, just lots of set-up and dialog the main characters don't even meet until a third of the way through the narrative. I couldn't believe how long it took to read the first half – far longer than normal – because I simply didn't care about the story or the characters. The pacing of the book is also problematic much of it is exceptionally slow. The first half of the novel is quite appropriate for teen readers and I would have recommended it for that audience, but the second half takes such a dark turn that it makes me think twice about endorsing it for readers in that age bracket. Several times I found myself checking to see if I'd accidentally chosen a young adult book, and that lessened its appeal for me. Indeed, I thought she very easily could have started her story with 'Once upon a time…' and it wouldn't have been out of place. I didn't hate it, but it's not one I can wholeheartedly recommend with a clear conscience.įirst, I found Wecker's writing style overly simplistic the narrative voice reminded me of a fairy tale told to children as much as anything else. I have to admit I found this novel a disappointment (and I do realize I'm in the minority in my opinion many people seem to think it's a delight). During the course of the novel, first-time author Helene Wecker leads her readers to ponder such weighty subjects as what it means to be human, the importance of friends, and the place of religion in society. And, as in the best friendships, they interact in ways that bring out the better natures of each. Recognizing each other as someone outside of humanity – alone and lonely without a sense of community or someone who truly understands them – the two become friends. The Golem and the Jinni is a magical tale about two mythical creatures that cross paths in New York City at the turn of the last century.

Despite an inviting premise, a tale about two mythical creatures in late nineteenth century New York proves far from satisfying

The golem and the jinni by helene wecker