The Last Watchman of Old Cairo by Michael David Lukas, 5 Stars

[Holly R W]

" The Last Watchman of Old Cairo" is a book that I will remember. The story and writing captivated me, transporting me to both historic and modern day Cairo. The story centers around Joseph, who is a graduate student at Berkley. He was raised in the U.S. by a Jewish mother, herself born in Egypt. His father is a Muslim Egyptian living in Cairo. Joseph himself identifies with neither religion. After his father's death, Joseph travels to Cairo to learn more about his father and his family's history. He also wants to unravel the mystery behind an ancient remnant of a written letter that arrived from Egypt after his father's death.

The reader learns that Joseph's paternal family have been hired watchmen of the Ibn Ezra Synagogue from the 11th century up into modern times. His father was the last watchman in a long line. He and Joseph's mother met as young teenagers in the courtyard of the temple. She and her family fled to Paris when Nasser expelled the Jews from Egypt.

The book also contains two other story lines. In the 11th century, Ali is recruited to be the first watchman of the temple. The reader connects with him and discovers what his life is like. The last story line features twin sisters, Agnes and Margaret, who are British and Christian and travel to Egypt looking for historic religious texts. This is in the 19th century.

I found the stories to be fascinating. After finishing the book, I watched a book talk by the author on Youtube. Listening to Lukas answer questions about his book further added to my enjoyment.

[Joanne]

Thanks for the insightful thoughts Holly. This is one I have been meaning to get to, and it just never made to the top of the pile. Going to try to reciter that soon!

[Amy]

I thought this one was wonderful

[Theresa]

This was one of my top reads in 2018 and I recommend it constantly. I just loved it and now I have to find that You Tube discussion, LOL.

[Holly R W]

Thank you everyone for taking the time to comment. I had started reading the book with no real expectations. It surprised me how much I enjoyed the book. This Saturday, I will see a play called, "The Band's Visit". It originally played on Broadway. The story is about an Egyptian band of musicians who get lost on their way to their venue in Israel. They find themselves in a small town in Israel and are forced to spend the night there with Israelis who welcome them into their homes. It's a musical. Their stories are told in song. I'm really looking forward to experiencing the play, especially after reading "The Last Watchman"!

[Theresa]

Holly R W wrote: "Thank you everyone for taking the time to comment. I had started reading the book with no real expectations. It surprised me how much I enjoyed the book. This Saturday, I will see a play called, "T..."

The Band's Visit is absolutely delightful. I enjoyed it immensely when I saw it on Broadway. I think you will realy enjoy it. What great timing with your reading!