The Golem and the Djinni

The Golem and the Djinni cover
Good Books rating 3.6
Technical
  • ID: 4598
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9780007527151
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2013-04-01
  • Formats: 6
  • Reviews: 2

The Golem and the Djinni is a captivating tale that weaves together elements of Jewish and Arab folklore, set against the vibrant backdrop of 1899 New York City. The story follows two mythical creatures, a golem and a djinni, who are brought to life in a world that is both familiar and strange. As they struggle to understand their place in this new environment, they form an unlikely friendship that transcends cultural and mythological boundaries. The novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the search for meaning, all while delivering a richly imagined and beautifully written narrative. With its unique blend of historical fiction and magical realism, The Golem and the Djinni offers a fresh and enchanting perspective on the immigrant experience and the power of myth in our lives.

Reviews
Sifa Elizabeth Reads · Sifa Elizabeth · 2021-07-15
meandering 3.20

This is a big, expansive story that can feel slow and meandering at times. The pacing can make it feel like it's dragging.

This is a big, expansive, and meandering story. It's a thick book, and combined with the pacing, there were times when it felt like it was dragging. However, the detailed depictions of historic cultures and the close attention to character development make it a rewarding read for those who enjoy rich, slow-burn narratives. The characters are well-developed, and the historical setting is beautifully rendered.


Quick quotes

    It's a big, expansive, and meandering story.

    It's a thick book, and combined with the pacing, there were times when it felt like it was dragging.

    It will delight people who love detailed depictions of historic cultures and close attention to character development.

Claire Huston · Claire Huston · 2016-01-25
engrossing 4.00

This is an engrossing story with excellent period detail. The blend of fantasy and historical elements is cleverly done.

This is an engrossing story with excellent period detail. The blend of fantasy and historical elements is cleverly done, making it a unique and captivating read. The characters are well-developed, and the historical setting is beautifully rendered. The narrative is engaging, and the period detail adds depth to the story, making it a standout in the fantasy genre. The review gave it 4 out of 5 stars.


Quick quotes

    An engrossing story with excellent period detail.

    The beautiful writing, the clever plot, the blending of fantasy with historical ...

    I sought this out at the library based entirely on the recommendation of Emily ...

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