The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon - 4 stars (Subdue)

[Joy D]

The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon - 4* - My Review

In this combination of alternate history and gritty crime noir, a temporary Jewish homeland had been established in Sitka, Alaska after World War II. In a few weeks, the agreement will expire, Alaska will “revert” to the Americans, and the Jewish residents will have to leave. Meyer Landsman is a detective investigating a murder with his half-Tlinglit partner, Berko Shemets. Landsman’s wife and their relationship history, along with his run of bad luck, is another storyline.

The writing is top rate, as I’ve come to expect from Michael Chabon. It features Jewish folklore and customs. It contains a good amount of Yiddish terminology, and though a glossary of terms is provided, it relies quite a bit on the reader to infer the meaning. (I was way out of my element here.) I am not a huge fan of detective stories but very much enjoyed the world building and the elements of speculative and alternate history. If you are just starting to read Chabon, I would not start with this one. I am reading his back catalogue. While it is not my favorite of his books, I found it creative and fascinating.

[Holly R W]

Joy, I have read most of Chabon's wife's books (Ayelete Waldman), but have read none of his. Which of his books did you like the best?

[Joy D]

Holly, I have read (so far) 6 of his books and plan to read his entire catalogue. I just love his writing style.

My two favorites are:
The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay and
Wonder Boys - both 5 star reads for me.

I have not read any of his wife's books, so I will check them out.

[Holly R W]

Thanks, Joy.