(Horizons) The Last Watchman of Old Cairo - Michael David Lukas

[Kelly]

This book coves three time frames to tell about a family and their dedication to protecting the documents of an ancient synagogue in Cairo. A package containing papers is sent to Joseph, a student in American, as a final gift from his dying father. Joseph travels to Cairo to try to find out more about his family history and the job of watchman many of them held at the synagogue. This role was passed on from father to son for generations. Ali was the first to be trusted with this position long ago and his story is especially moving. The author breaks up the tale by introducing two older sisters visiting the country in the late 1800’s who also have an interest in the papers and their own goals to save them.

The book has themes of family, religion, loyalty, traditions and forgiveness. Joseph may be looking for why he was originally sent the few papers in the beginning of the book, but his search will lead him to more. This historic fiction novel was well written and the different characters’ points of views helped create a meaningful story.

[Theresa]

This was one of my top 10 reads in 2018 and I recommend it all the time. Loved loved the story and delighted to see you enjoyed it.