Book Review: "The Scroll"

The Scroll by Miriam Feinberg Vamosh is a fictional account, which I found problematic though mesmerizing, is inspired by an archeological discovery. This is a genre of fiction that seems to be coming more and more popular. It's based on a strong knowledge of ancient times.

Miriam Feinberg Vamosh is the author of several informative, illustrated books about ancient times in the Holy Land that have been translated into more than 30 languages. Her love affair with the Bible and ancient sources began in her parents’ home and led to her writing career. This love has deepened over many years as a tour educator in Israel. Miriam specializes in weaving together Jewish literary sources, traditions and beliefs, and has a keen discernment for how these sources complement and contrast the origins of the Jewish religious movement that eventually became Christianity. The author is a translator with the English edition of the Israeli daily newspaper, Haaretz. Writing about events that took place millennia ago, together with her work for the news desk of a critical, cutting-edge newspaper are part and parcel of the complexities that, for Miriam, make life in Israel a never-ending search for meaning.

In this case, an appendix giving an easy to follow summary of the history of the time would be useful for the reader, since not everybody is familiar with that time period. But I must say that although I had trouble following or relating to the historic facts, the characters and plot were so well conceived and well written that I never wanted to put the book down. The period of time covered here includes the death of Jesus and when there was a fine line, and lots of tension, between very early Christians and traditional Jews of the time. Apparently, this time period is a fascination and specialty of Zamosh, and I kept being on alert for a Christian agenda, which would be problematic for me and for reviewing the book on my blog. I have reviewed and read other books from Menorah Books which were all "perfectly kosher."

To be completely honest, I am not an expert in the time period covered in the book, nor in any sort of comparative theology. But I feel it necessary to let potential readers know that the author, Miriam Feinberg Vamosh, shows sympathy to the early Christians, showing them in a good light. Therefore some people may not want to read the book or have it in their homes.

But if you can just consider the plot and events as fiction then you will enjoy the book.

List Price: $22.95
Product Code: SCROLL

ISBN: 978-1-940516-46-2

Binding: Paperback/ 294 pages

Dimensions: 8.5” H x 5” W

Weight: 0.9 lbs

Global shipping available.