May Book- The Golem and The Jinni: Ch 1-7

[Unknown]

ETA: guess the book title in the subject would help.

Sorry for the P& R, but I’m crushed at work.

In the first 7 chapters we meet the golem (Chava), the jinni (Ahmad) and numerous secondary characters. We learn how they came to be and ended up in NYC 1899.

The golem is a creature made of clay created for Rotfeld by Yehudah Schaalman. Rotfeld had a desire for a woman, but he didn’t want just any woman he wanted one with curiosity and intelligence. He was worried about her prior to his passing. Did he love her? It would have been interesting to see if he would have played the role of father, master or husband. Rabbi Meyer seems like a father figure. He helps her understand to do as people say, not what they think. Even though I can’t read thoughts, this is great advice. Will Rabbi Meyer help the golem find her purpose in NYC?

The Jinni is a creature made of fire, who unknowingly was held captive in a flask for the last thousand years only to be released by the shy and awkward tinsmith Arbeely. The jinni seems more comfortable in his skin and wanting to get out and explore. Should Arbeely keep him hidden? Who does the jinni seem so entitled to do as he pleases? Does he need a master as much as the golem? How dangerous could it be to start a relationship with Sophia?

What are some of the similarities and differences between the Golem and the Jinni? Will they fit in as human into their new lives? Who will help them achieve their goal/desires? What are their desires?

[aggiebug]

Oh these characters! So different and so dynamic. It has been a while since I read this book and I couldn't get it from the library for a reread so these weekly posts are difficult to not spoil the book. I post on the last one most candidly.

I remember feeling the book was slow to build but really enjoying the journey. The characters continue to grow and become more dynamic.

[Unknown]

Sorry, I've been a bad discussion leader. I've been really busy at work and sick lately. I plan on following up in here and posting the new discussion today at some point.

[Unknown]

I feel like the overlying view here is human nature and finding yourself. Just a child would. The golem and the jinni need to discover who they are and what their purpose is in this new life. They need to become confident in themselves (even thought the jinni does seem quite confident). I think they both desire to be free in every sense of the word. I'm sure the will be able to guide each other, and I can't wait for their paths to cross.

The Sophia relationship can't end well, but I wonder if he sees her similar to Fadwa and wants to recapture that.