I chat about lots of things, but I don't often tell you specifically what I'm reading in real time. So since it's obvi all about me, I've decided to start a feature called "What I'm Reading." Excited?
First up, something I am a huge fan of, The Golem and the Jinni by Helene Wecker. This is a debut novel that I think everyone will find wonderfully engaging.
The story is set in 1900 NYC (I am already sold!). Wecker introduces the Golem, a being made of clay, created to do her master's bidding, but who finds herself un-moored from her purpose when he dies (NOT a spoiler, promise). She finds herself growing to care about the humans in her community, but feels fundamentally alone until she meets the Jinni, a creature of fire (conveniently manifested in hunky man form) who craves his freedom from the wizard who trapped him. Their lives intertwine in unexpected ways as they discover their origins aren't that different. Wecker marries historical fiction and fable, one from Yiddish and the other from Arab mythology, into an incredible story of love, acceptance and bravery. The supporting cast of characters is also very rich, a kind young social worker, a mysterious old man, and a nervous tinsmith contribute to the rich story telling.
Michael Chabon, Erin Morgenstern and Jonathan Safran Foer have all been mentioned as comp authors, so way to go Helene! I think this could be a really great discovery for you and your patrons. Check, check, check, check it out!
– Annie