An immense work of historical fiction set in 18th century Poland, the essence of such a long novel cannot satisfactorily be captured in a review of this length; however, I think Olga Tokarczuk’s The Books Of Jacob can be classified as a masterpiece.
It’s difficult to convey the detail and scope as the story follows Jacob Frank, mystic and sect-leader, as he travels across the borders of Eastern Europe and sheds light on a significant period of its history. Highlighting the different religious movements, there is a strong focus on the numerous characters – numerous enough for me to create a list, I must confess.
Tokarczuk has received much acclaim for previous work, including being awarded the 2019 Nobel Prize in Literature and the 2018 International Booker Prize for previous novel, Flights. Despite not being the easiest travelling companion due to its sheer weight, I am extremely glad that it was translated into the English language, expertly crafted by Jennifer Croft who conveys the essence of the novel so well.
Historical fiction at its finest: I will be thinking about The Books Of Jacob’s characters and places for years to come, and I am mesmerised at how the author managed to weave this tale together to produce such a significant piece of work.
The Books of Jacob, Olga Tokarczuk [trans. Jennifer Croft] (Fitzcarraldo Editions)
Price: £20/£9.99 Ebook. Info: here
words RHIANON HOLLEY