Sample translation available.

Set in 1930s Prague, this gripping new variation on the Golem legend begins with the story of the great Rabbi Fischel, uniquely entrusted by the Jewish community with the power to create an artificial human being out of clay using the magical formulas of the Kabbala. One day Rabbi Fischel decides to transmit this knowledge to Nathan Eisner, a promising young student. Nathan imprudently reveals his secret to Camille, a woman with whom he has fallen in love. His story attracts the attention of several errant scholars at the service of Nazi officials who have set about finding the source of his power, convinced that its origins lie with Aryan teachings. The consequences prove tragic, not only to himself, but to the Jewish people as well as the world at large.

This modern classic centers on eternal themes of temptation and chastisement stemming from humankind’s passion for knowledge. In addition, we learn that this particular legend, a constant theme in literature, especially that of the German Romantic movement, eerily foretells the fateful events of WWII.