Plot Summary

The Finkler Question

Howard Jacobson
Guide cover placeholder

The Finkler Question

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010

Book Brief

Howard Jacobson

The Finkler Question

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London • Contemporary

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

The Finkler Question by Howard Jacobson explores the complex relationships and identities of three friends—Julian Treslove, Sam Finkler, and Libor Sevcik—as they navigate their senses of Jewish identity within a historically antisemitic society, ultimately grappling with friendship, loss, and self-discovery.

Contemplative

Melancholic

Humorous

Bittersweet

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

3.2

16,591 ratings

30%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

38%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

The Finkler Question by Howard Jacobson is widely praised for its witty prose and deep exploration of Jewish identity and friendship. Critics commend its blend of humor and serious themes. However, some find its satirical tone overly cynical and the pacing uneven. Overall, it offers a thought-provoking yet polarizing read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Finkler Question?

A reader who enjoys The Finkler Question by Howard Jacobson is likely drawn to literary fiction with complex characters, themes of identity and friendship, and a sharp, satirical narrative. Fans of works like Portnoy's Complaint by Philip Roth or White Teeth by Zadie Smith would find this novel engaging.

3.2

16,591 ratings

30%

Loved it

32%

Mixed feelings

38%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

London • Contemporary

Publication Year

2010

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!