 2008-09-30 - a most worthwile book to read
a fine book in all areas. would apeal to both men and women. a most compelling story.
2008-09-25 - A wonderful story
Book and manuscript conservator, Dr.Hanna Heath is brought to Sarajevo, after the Bosnian war, to examine what the authorities hope will be a huge find..a Haggadar or ancient Hebrew manuscript, written in the early 15th century. Hanna discovers some unusual tiny clues while examing the book such as a fine white hair, an insects wing, a supposed wine stain and salt crystals, all in a minute quantity and virtually invisible except to the trained eye. The most unusual feature about the manuscript is that it contains the most beautiful illustrations done in gold, silver and lapis lazuli and that, never before, has a Hebrew book contained illustrations, which are forbidden in that religion. The story is mainly that of the history of the book from its conception and through religious pogroms where this wonderful book is protected by people of all religions who value it for its beauty and in spite of fanatics who would destroy it. It's a wonderful journey through the centuries with wars, loves and conflicts of all kinds including sheer avarice and is a superb read for lovers of art and history.
2008-09-24 - The People of the Book
What secrets lie in the pages of a sixty million dollar 500 year old book? Geraldine Brooks tells the story of the real Sarajevo Haddagah in her latest novel, People of the Book. Through CSI-style technical research during the book restoration process, clues to the books orgins, owner's and secrets spill out over centuries. No topic is off limits, as Brooks humanizes some of histories great intolerant atrocities. One comes to expect an informative read from this particular author, but I was absolutely blown away by this book. This book was a thoroughly enjoyable read. The deft structuring of the novel consumed me from page one--and had me sneaking in short readings wherever and whenever I could. I'm highly recommending it as one of the best I've read this year (so far).
 2008-09-08 - Interesting way to develop a look at Jewish history
Wrapped in story about the history of a Jewish book of great historical interest, the People of the Book reveals a colorful history of the Jewish people in all of their struggles throught Europe and the Middle East for the centuries of the books life.
 2008-09-06 - People of the Book
I loved this book. Mystery, history, romance, suspense....it has it all. I also now have a much greater appreciation for the value placed on historical books and their painstaking restoration process. Very informative in an entertaining way.
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