The World That We Knew by Alice HoffmanMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
I'm not usually a reader of books with magic, sorcery, or religious mysticism so the fact that I chose this book and enjoyed it so completely is a real departure for me. Alice Hoffman is a consummate writer, blending character, plot, setting, and emotion into a deeply moving reading experience.
A Jewish mother's love for her daughter at the onset of World War II in Germany impels Hanni Kohn to seek out a Rabbi's help to protect her young daughter, Lea. When she's turned away by the Rabbi's wife, the Rabbi's daughter, Ettie, performs the ancient, biblical ritual to create a golem (Ava) that will protect Lea from the ravages of German persecution. The story follows Lea, Ava, and Ettie as they seek escape into Paris, France, find strength, love, and heartbreak, and deal with the sometimes cruel, sometimes joyful, paths that they each must follow.
Highly recommended. The audio narration by Judith Light is excellent.
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