RASHI'S DAUGHTERS BOOK II: MIRIAM

Author: Maggie Anton ISBN: 0452288630 8/2007 HISTORICAL Publisher: PLUME
Time Period: Medieval France, 1078

Troyes, France, 1078. As Salomon ben Isaac teaches his lively and daring middle daughter, Miriam, the intericacies ofthe Talmud, he has no idea how far she will push the boundaries. Emboldened by her knowledge and mourning the death of her betrothed, Miriam is determined to become not only the community's midwife, but also their mohel-performing circumcisions. As devoted as she is to her chosen path, she cannot foresee the ways in which she will be tested and how heavily she will need to rely on her faith. And when a shadowy new suitor arrives in Troyes—an exceptionally learned and handsome young scholar who struggles with a secret that, if revealed, would expose them both to ruin—the formidable and independent Miriam must decide if they can forge a life together.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

RASHI'S DAUGHTERS-BOOK II: MIRIAM is a moving story about a scholar, his intelligence-seeking daughter and the Jewish faith. Miriam has suffered loss that would cripple some. Instead, she pulls herself up and aspires to even higher greatness, learning all she can about the Talmud from her father, Salomon ben Isaac. Even the father who knows her so well cannot guess at the plans this daring young woman has in mind.

I was completely intrigued by this book, drawn right into the world of eleventh-century life. The reader need not understand anything about Judaism to read and understand this book. Every aspect is told in rich detail; the setting, characters and plot brought to life by the author's skilled storytelling. Salomon, Miriam and Judah are historical figures who, while embellished upon fictitiously, come to life once again in this book. Miriam's quest for enlightenment, love and fulfillment, although it takes place so long ago, is one that modern women can relate to. Marital discord, commitment and faith are topics that are as contemporary as they are ancient.

RASHI'S DAUGHTERS-BOOK II: MIRIAM is a tale that entertained as well as taught this reader. I enjoyed it immensely.

Kay James