Plot Summary

The Slave

Isaac Bashevis Singer
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The Slave

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1962

Book Brief

Isaac Bashevis Singer

The Slave

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1962
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Poland • 17th century

Publication Year

1962

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Slave by Isaac Bashevis Singer, published in 1962, follows Jacob, a Jewish slave in Poland during the 17th century, who falls in love with Wanda, a gentile woman. This relationship challenges his faith and adherence to Jewish law. Despite significant societal and religious obstacles, they marry, and she converts to Judaism. The book explores their struggles and their ultimate attempt to find a place in the world for themselves and their child. The story features intense historical violence and cultural conflicts.

Melancholic

Mysterious

Emotional

Bittersweet

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.4

3,971 ratings

82%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Isaac Bashevis Singer's The Slave is lauded for its evocative storytelling and deep exploration of human resilience and spiritual struggle. Readers appreciate its historical context and richly drawn characters. However, some critics find the pacing uneven and the prose occasionally dense. Overall, it remains a powerful and thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Slave?

A reader who enjoys complex historical fiction with deep emotional and spiritual themes would appreciate Isaac Bashevis Singer's The Slave. Fans of works like My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok or The Chosen would find its exploration of Jewish identity and moral dilemmas compelling.

4.4

3,971 ratings

82%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Poland • 17th century

Publication Year

1962

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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