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The Secret Jewish Village: A historical fiction novel based on a true story
Italy, 1930. Amid the tranquil beauty of a half-forgotten mountain village, Donato Manduzio makes a critical discovery that shakes the foundation of his rural community of San Nicandro.
Scarred from his service during the Great War, Donato comes into possession of a book of Torah – scriptures of a culture none in San Nicandro had heard of. Believing Judaism has perished centuries ago, Donato converts, surprising the entirety of this entirely Catholic village.
The Secret Jewish Village tells the story of Donato, penning his journey from illiteracy to enlightenment, but also of the whole of San Nicandro – a village seemingly frozen in time, until the arrival of war and faith force it to confront ostracism and change.
Under the shadow of World War II, the people of San Nicandro will never be the same.
Based on the true story of the convert congregation of San Nicandro, The Secret Jewish Village is a captivating tale of faith, transformation, and the unbreakable spirit of a community, perfect for fans of Angela Petch, Roberta Kagan, and Paradiso.
Scarred from his service during the Great War, Donato comes into possession of a book of Torah – scriptures of a culture none in San Nicandro had heard of. Believing Judaism has perished centuries ago, Donato converts, surprising the entirety of this entirely Catholic village.
The Secret Jewish Village tells the story of Donato, penning his journey from illiteracy to enlightenment, but also of the whole of San Nicandro – a village seemingly frozen in time, until the arrival of war and faith force it to confront ostracism and change.
Under the shadow of World War II, the people of San Nicandro will never be the same.
Based on the true story of the convert congregation of San Nicandro, The Secret Jewish Village is a captivating tale of faith, transformation, and the unbreakable spirit of a community, perfect for fans of Angela Petch, Roberta Kagan, and Paradiso.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 25, 2024
336 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
June 29, 2024
I found it difficult to read, and although I did finish it, I skimmed a lot. Since this is a true story, I suppose I can find out what happened after the book ended. It was a sudden, unexpected ending, and I did not like it. I’m glad I read it, but I won’t follow this author. Too much Torah talk!
January 23, 2024
A well-crafted historical drama based on a true story...
"The Secret Jewish Village" by Yaël König is an enthralling journey that beckons readers into the vivid tapestry of 1930s Italy. Against the picturesque backdrop of San Nicandro, a mountain village seemingly lost in time, the narrative takes a riveting turn as Donato Manduzio stumbles upon a profound discovery—a Torah. Scarred by the echoes of the Great War, Donato's quest for solace leads to an unexpected conversion to Judaism, a seismic shift that reverberates through the deeply ingrained Catholic traditions of San Nicandro.
In this historical fiction, König skillfully unveils a rich narrative that explores themes of faith, metamorphosis, and the unwavering fortitude of a community on the brink of transformative change. The novel weaves together the personal odyssey of Donato, a poignant reflection of the collective journey of San Nicandro. From his evolution through the realms of illiteracy to enlightenment, Donato's story becomes emblematic of the village's communal experience.
Delving into the intricate dynamics of San Nicandro, a village teetering on the precipice of confrontation and change, König masterfully intertwines cultural discovery with the resilient human spirit, creating a narrative that is both evocative and compelling. The historical authenticity, rooted in a true story, adds layers of depth and resonance to the tale, making it a profound exploration of faith and identity.
As the pages unfold, "The Secret Jewish Village" becomes a poignant exploration set against the tumultuous backdrop of an impending World War. The narrative's impact resonates, leaving readers with moments of reflection and a heightened appreciation for the indomitable spirit of humanity amidst profound cultural shifts. This book comes highly recommended for those seeking an immersive and thought-provoking literary experience. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this captivating novel.
"The Secret Jewish Village" by Yaël König is an enthralling journey that beckons readers into the vivid tapestry of 1930s Italy. Against the picturesque backdrop of San Nicandro, a mountain village seemingly lost in time, the narrative takes a riveting turn as Donato Manduzio stumbles upon a profound discovery—a Torah. Scarred by the echoes of the Great War, Donato's quest for solace leads to an unexpected conversion to Judaism, a seismic shift that reverberates through the deeply ingrained Catholic traditions of San Nicandro.
In this historical fiction, König skillfully unveils a rich narrative that explores themes of faith, metamorphosis, and the unwavering fortitude of a community on the brink of transformative change. The novel weaves together the personal odyssey of Donato, a poignant reflection of the collective journey of San Nicandro. From his evolution through the realms of illiteracy to enlightenment, Donato's story becomes emblematic of the village's communal experience.
Delving into the intricate dynamics of San Nicandro, a village teetering on the precipice of confrontation and change, König masterfully intertwines cultural discovery with the resilient human spirit, creating a narrative that is both evocative and compelling. The historical authenticity, rooted in a true story, adds layers of depth and resonance to the tale, making it a profound exploration of faith and identity.
As the pages unfold, "The Secret Jewish Village" becomes a poignant exploration set against the tumultuous backdrop of an impending World War. The narrative's impact resonates, leaving readers with moments of reflection and a heightened appreciation for the indomitable spirit of humanity amidst profound cultural shifts. This book comes highly recommended for those seeking an immersive and thought-provoking literary experience. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this captivating novel.
December 20, 2024
similar to other readers reviews, I too struggled to read this book. There is probably a good historical story here worth telling but it was not conveyed by this author. I too found myself skimming over pages in the hope the story would get better. It did not.
April 19, 2024
I really wanted to love this book. I still want to know the true story. But it is so poorly written that I could not get even to half of it. Very disappointed.
November 9, 2024
Amazing story!!! So glad Ms. Konig took on the novelization of this incredible story.
April 30, 2025
A bit difficult to rate this book: an interesting storyline yet somewhat cumbersome.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews