The Yiddish Policemen's Union

by Michael Chabon
The Yiddish Policemen's Union cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Mystery
Technical
  • ID: 4625
  • Added: 2025-10-21
  • Updated: 2025-10-22
  • ISBN: 9780007150397
  • Publisher: HarperCollins UK
  • Published: 2007-01-01
  • Reviews: 4

The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon is a unique blend of mystery, historical fiction, and literary exploration set in the Federal District of Sitka, Alaska. This temporary haven for Jewish refugees, established after the Holocaust and the fall of Israel, is on the brink of reverting to Alaskan control. Amidst this backdrop, homicide detective Meyer Landsman, a man grappling with personal and professional turmoil, investigates the murder of his neighbor, a former chess prodigy. His investigation leads him through the complex web of faith, obsession, and redemption that defines his heritage and his troubled marriage to Bina Gelbfish. The novel is a gripping whodunit that also serves as a love story, a homage to 1940s noir, and an exploration of the mysteries of exile and redemption. Chabon's intricate storytelling and vivid world-building make this a compelling read that stands out in the realm of contemporary fiction.

Reviews
goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-10-21
positive 4.00

The book is a mix of recipes and the story behind the Dishoom restaurant, offering insights into its success and beloved dishes.

Dishoom: From Bombay with Love is a cookbook that combines the recipes that have made Dishoom a beloved restaurant with the story behind its success. The book is divided into two parts: one focusing on the recipes that have made Dishoom famous, and the other on the journey of the founders, Shamil and Kavi Thakrar, and executive chef Naved Nasir. The recipes are detailed and include the revered breakfast item that has become a signature dish. The book is a celebration of the restaurant's journey, from its first site in Covent Garden to winning the Restaurateur of the Year – Group Catey award. It's a must-read for fans of Indian cuisine and those interested in the story behind one of London's most popular restaurants.

Quick quotes

    Bacon naan? Ho yes.

    Half of the book is made up of the recipes that have made Dishoom the success it is today.

    The book is a celebration of the restaurant's journey, from its first site in Covent Garden to winning the Restaurateur of the Year — Group Catey award.

jeroenthoughts.wordpress.com · Unknown · 2017-09-30
intriguing 4.00

The Yiddish Policemen's Union is a gripping and imaginative novel that blends mystery and alternate history. The reviewer praises Chabon's world-building and the unique setting, though some plot elements may feel thin.

The Yiddish Policemen's Union is a standout novel that masterfully combines a detective story with a richly imagined alternate history. The reviewer is particularly impressed by Chabon's ability to create a vivid and believable world, as well as the intricate details that bring the setting to life. However, they note that some of the plot elements, particularly towards the end, feel a bit rushed and underdeveloped. Despite this, the novel's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a compelling read. The reviewer also appreciates the way Chabon explores themes of identity and community, adding depth to the story beyond the mystery at its core. Overall, it's a book that will leave readers thinking long after they've turned the last page.

Quick quotes

    The book is a masterclass in world-building

    Chabon's alternate history is both intriguing and believable

    The plot, however, feels a bit thin at times, especially towards the end

    The themes of identity and community add a layer of depth that makes the novel more than just a mystery.

theliteraryomnivore.wordpress.com · Unknown · 2010-04-26
brilliant 5.00

The reviewer highly praises Dishoom's cookbook, noting its vivid descriptions and love for Bombay. They appreciate the essays that make you fall in love with the city and the urge to visit it. The only complaint is the desire for a sequel to get more of Bombay's essence.

The reviewer is a huge fan of Dishoom and their cookbook, which they received as a Christmas gift. The book is described as a wonderful addition to any library, not just for the recipes but for the essays that reveal a deep love for Bombay. The essays are so vivid that the reviewer felt like they had visited Bombay after reading them. The only complaint is the desire for a sequel to get more of Bombay's essence. The reviewer also appreciates the authors' love for literature and their inclusion of a reading list at the back of the book.

Quick quotes

    The pages are crammed with essays revealing the love the Dishoom creators have for this yesteryear part of India.

    Not many writers manage to excite my imagination in this way.

    The answer is, of course, to reproduce the smell (and taste) of Bombay; to do the cooking.

The Guardian · 2007-06-09
brilliant 4.00

The novel is praised for its brilliant writing but criticized for a not-quite-fatal flaw at its heart. The tone is described as world-weary, reminiscent of classic detective fiction.

The reviewer at The Guardian highlights the brilliant writing in Michael Chabon's new novel, noting its world-weary tone that fits perfectly within the detective genre. They appreciate the clever plot and well-drawn characters, but they also point out a significant flaw that prevents the novel from being truly exceptional. Despite this, the book is seen as a strong addition to the genre, with a unique setting and engaging narrative.

Quick quotes

    Michael Chabon's new novel is a brilliantly written fantasy with a not-quite-fatal flaw at its heart.

    The tone is world-weary in the manner of Chandler, with a twist of the fantastical.

    Chabon's inventive world-building and clever plotting make this a standout in the genre.

Appears in Lists