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Richard Zimler's The Last Kabbalist of Lisbon is not a particularly religious novel, but it uses religion to great dramatic effect. Although its story takes place during the 16th- century slaughter of Jews in Portugal, and its main characters are Jewish mystics, Zimler is less interested in describing their spiritual lives than in plotting a fantastic murder mystery. The book purports to be a modern translation of a medieval manuscript telling the story of the murder of a great kabbalist in Lisbon named Abraham. Occasionally, the story invokes a bit of kabbalist wisdom that is every bit as luminous as the ancient texts that inspired this novel: "Books are created from holy letters," one character says. "Just as angels are, according to some. Viewed from this perspective--through a window of Kabbalah, if you like--an angel is nothing but a book given heavenly form." Such moments are too rare for the book to be very perceptive about the tradition to which its title alludes, but nevertheless, it's an absorbing and genuinely suspenseful story. -- Michael Joseph Gross
Customer Reviews:
In the Name of the Kabbalist Uncle.......2007-07-04
This is a mystery that is also an historical novel and a condemnation of both the catholic church and the monarchies of the Iberian Peninsula. At the end of the fifteenth century, their "Most Catholic Majesties" Isabella and Ferdinand of Spain, decided to convert the Jews and Moslems of recently conquered Cordova as well as those in the rest of their kingdom. Underlying this decision was their ability to confiscate the riches and properties of anyone who didn't "volunteer" to convert. Even then, many of the 'converso' or New Christians were slaughtered to get their wealth on the argument that they were still 'secret jews'.
In 1497, King Manual of Portugal was convinced by the Dominican Friars that the Jews (and Moslems) of Portugal should be brought under the protection of the Catholic Church. Jews and Moslems were forcibly brought to the baptismal font and converted. Many were driven into the Tagus River where they were baptized 'en mass'; if a few (or more than a few) drowned, no matter, their souls were saved.
Ten years later (the 'New Christians' had been given twenty years to give up their evil ways) there was a 'pogrom' in Portugal, and many of the 'New Christians' were massacred and/or burned alive in the central square of Lisbon over a three day period that happened to coincide with Passover. The mobs that terrorized the city were lead by Dominican monks (many who would pay with their lives, later) who seemed to have taken especial pleasure in torturing, raping and plundering these New Christian/Jews.
In this atmosphere is set this novel. A well known and respected illuminator of books (and secret Kabbalist) is found murdered (his neck is cut the way an animal has to be to be considered slaughtered in the Kosher way) along with a young woman. They are both naked and the secret room they are in is locked from the inside. His nephew and protege, must find out who has killed his uncle.
This is a locked room mystery, and everything else is window dressing, but it's great window dressing and Zimler does a great job in describing both the historical, cultural and societal context within which all of the action occurs. It's a great read.
Vivid and Disturbing.......2007-04-24
Set in 1506 Lisbon, "The Last Kabbalist of Lisbon" is a thriller that centres on a young manuscript illuminator whose uncle was found dead with a naked girl with him. The uncle was a Kabbalist and the investigation leads Berekiah into some rather unpredictable twists and turns.
The novel is rich in detail as it plunges the reader into the seething masses of fear and suspicion that raged at the time. Christians were burning Jews and massacres were pretty common experiences. Even the so-called Christians who had converted from Judaism were not safe. It is some of the more violent scenes that left me with a rather bitter aftertaste.
The book itself is well written, with a lot happening. I found it a hard book to second guess, which was a satisfying element to the book. The plot and setting are fairly unique, and I have not read a book exactly like it before.
Also, people interested in Kabbalah might find it an interesting foray in that mysterious world. A cynic might say that it was a useful marketting ploy on Richard Zimler's part, but the whole Kabbalist angle lends the book a specialness rarely found.
For crime fans, this is a book with something different and a definite alternate flavour. I enjoyed it immensely and would recommend it without reservation.
Intriguing thriller with vivid historic details.......2006-07-28
In 1496, King Manuel of Portugal decides to convert the Portuguese Jews to Christianity rather than expelling them from Portugal. He didn't want to loose the main pillars of the country's commerce activities. However, these New Christians, as they were called, secretly persisted in their beliefs praying in Hebrew and keeping the Sabbath and as much of their rituals as was possible.
One of these 'Secret' Jews was Abraham Zarco, a renowned and respected Kabbalist who was found dead with a dead naked girl by his side. The story is narrated by his nephew, Benekiah Zarco a talented young manuscript illuminator who tried to solve this enigmatic murder.
This is not an ordinary thriller. It is a beautiful mystery story and a history lesson.
Highest Marks for Mystical Mystery.......2005-07-12
If the histororical intrigue doesn't keep the pages turning (and have you checking some of the authors sources); if the religious tightrope isn't taunt and narrow enough for you; if the mystery itself doesn't at least make you head for the back page faster than you should... I'd be suprised. Excellent work! Much more enjoyable and much more "historic" than The DaVinci Code or Angels and Demons. None of Brown's "hidden agenda" stuff either. You can either account this author's historical take as fully valid or not, but you're going to have to do some REAL history research to get there. Historical fiction is much more enjoyable when its not being squished out of murky controversy and alterior motive, and The Last Kabblist is a perfect blend of pacing, mystery and oh so much more!
Murder and a history lesson.......2004-06-26
"The last kabbalist of Lisbon" is a man named Berekiah Zarco, a jew living in Lisbon in the beginning of the 16th century. During that year's Passover celebration, the christian population in Lisbon revolted against the jews, and many atrocities were commited. Zarco's uncle, Abraham, a powerful jew and kabbalist, was involved in many irregular activities. During the riots, Berekiah's life is turned upside down, and, among other things, his beloved uncle is murdered, under mysterious circumstances.
Richard Zimler has created a novel based in many layers, characters and situations. Sometimes a little confusing, but always interesting, Zimler guides us since his discovery of the hidden documents written by Zarco centuries ago, to his misfortunes while trying to find his uncle's murderer. The violence contained in the novel is purposedly very graphic, so that the reader can relate to what happened during the period. Most of his characters are complex, but, even if the story is narrated in first person, I felt detached from Berekiah, the main character, paying attention to other characters, more interesting in my opinion.
Zimler has written a story that is really a "whodunnit", mixed with the fictional account of one of the most unhappy times in human history. I liked it and recommend it, although it is a little too dense to become "popular".
Grade 8.0/10
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The Last Kabbalist Of Lisbon
Richard Zimler
Manufacturer: Arcadia Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
 Kabbalah
| Sacred Writings
| Judaism
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: B000KKD9YE |
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The Last kabbalist of Lisbon
Richard Zimler
Manufacturer: Arcadia Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Kabbalah
| Sacred Writings
| Judaism
| Religion & Spirituality
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: B000OHAJXM |
Book Description
An original novel set in the widely popular Wild Cards world created by science fiction scion George R.R. Martin. Edited by Hugo award winning and New York times bestselling author, George R.R. Martin. It's really quite simple. Mr. Nobody wants to do his job. The Midnight Angel wants to serve her Lord. Billy Ray, dying from boredom, wants some action. John Nighthawk wants to uncover the awful secret behind his mysterious power. Fortunato wants to rescue his son from the clutches of a cryptic Vatican office. John Fortune just wants to catch Siegfried and Ralph's famous Vegas review. The problem is that all roads, whether they start in Turin, Italy, Las Vegas, Hokkaido, Japan, Jokertown, Snake Hill, the Short Cut, or Yazoo City, Mississippi, lead to Leo Barnett's Peaceable Kingdon where the difference between the Apocalypse and Peace on Earth is as thin as a razor's edge and where Death himself awaits the final terrible turn of the card. Wild Cards: Death Draws Five is an original novel set in this shared world utilizing characters from other Wild Card adventures. John J. Miller Splitting his life between the Empire State and The Land of Enchantment, John J. Miller currently resides in Albuquerque, NM, with his wife Gail, five cats, two dogs, two goldfish, and too many books to count, approximately ten of which he's written. He's contemplating getting more goldfish, and, probably, books. George R. R. Martin was born in 1948 in Bayonne, NJ. Four-time winner of the Hugo Award, two-time winner of the Nebula and editor of over two dozen novels and anthologies, and the writer of numerous short stories. His New York Times bestselling novel, A Storm of Swords (the third volume in his epic fantasy series "A Song of Ice and Fire" (was published in 2000. Martin lives in Sante Fe, New Mexico.
Product Description
Words are the most powerful things in the universe! The words you speak will either put you over in life or hold you in bondage. Many peope have been held captive in their circumstances by their own words. The absence of God's Word in your life will rob you of faith in His ability. Recieve from God! Put yourself in a position to recieve God's best for you by speaking His Word. God's creative power is still just as it was in the beginning of time when he stood there and said, "Light-be," and light was. His Word spoken from your mouth and conceived in your heart become a spiritual force releasing His ability within you. Creative power in you! Man was created in the image of God and His likeness. Learn to speak His faith-filled words to your situation and see your life transformed. Allow God's creative power to flow from you. "I have told my people they can have what they say, but my people are saying what they have."
Customer Reviews:
Watch you words.......2007-08-07
This is the best book I have ever read on how important the words of our mouth are. Charles Capp makes it clear, to the point and backs up what is said with Scripture.
for the saved only-advanced learning.......2007-07-07
There IS power in the Word...spoken. Believers DO have authority given by Christ. Capps is an expert at teaching these truths. Yet, he doesn't teach any other foundational truths of the Bible, which may hinder those without strong "roots". Also, I don't enjoy his writing style, e.g. he changes phonts alot for emphasis(i assume) which I don't get and he is repetitive. I do enjoy listening to him on the radio, and will look for his dvds and cds.
Must Read.......2007-01-19
Fantasic book to learn how to operate the spiritual power available to all who choose to believe God's word. Deliverance and the more than abundant life can be yours. This book is rightly divided biblically and very interesting.
You can create better circumstances for yourself..........2006-09-24
Do you have a health problem? Get this book.
Do you have a family or relationship problem? Get this book.
Do you have a financial problem? Get this book.
In Genesis chapter 1, the tool that God use to create that which He wanted was "words". Guess what, words are exactly the same tool that you have to create that which you want in your life.
Problem is, most people are using words to bring that which they don't want. This book does an excellent job of getting you straitened out and creating that which you do want.
GREAT BOOK!.......2006-02-26
I love his teaching. He puts things down on paper that make it easy to absorb into the heart. YOU WILL LOVE THIS BOOK!
Product Description
Second Printing
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The Tongue, A Creative Force Commemorative
Charles Capps
Manufacturer: Harrison House
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
General
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General
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General
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Gifts
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ASIN: 1577947630 |
Book Description
Many men want-or need-to lose weight and eat healthy, but they're convinced that low-fat, low-cholesterol "diet" food will never satisfy their hearty appetites. That simply isn't the case, and JoAnna Lund proves it with this collection of healthy dishes that real men everywhere will love. From man-sized main dishes to delectable desserts, these easy-to-make recipes are perfect for women who always have their hungry men in mind-or men who man the stove themselves.
Recipes include:
Mexican Cheese Soup
Skillet Tomato Mac 'n' Cheese
He-Man's Gravy and Biscuits
Ham Lasagna Toss
Pizza Muffins
Orange Push-Up Cheesecake
Mom's Apple Pie
and more
Customer Reviews:
Cooking Healthy With a Man in Mind.......2006-03-04
Joanna Lund has made my life so much easier with her delicious and healthy recipes. The recipes in this cookbook are easy to make and the ingredients won't break the bank. Another winner by this author!
Quick & Easy Cooking.......2006-01-14
I believe this is a great cookbook for several reasons:
(1) The ingredients are easy to find & I'm likely to have them on hand; (2) The recipes are usually easy to prepare; (3) It teaches how to eat healthy and make simple, healthy substitutes; (4) Most recipes produce excellent tasting, hearty meals my husband enjoys.
Great for weight watchers, too!.......2003-07-14
With the calories, fat and fiber listed, Joanna's books are great to use on the weight watchers program, especially when you are too busy to cook the gourmet, time consuming recipies from the weight watchers folks. I don't mind using canned foods to prepare great tasting meals! I can eat my fresh fruits and veggies elsewhere- I want something hearty when I sit down at the table for dinner!
Helpful...but pretty boring.......2002-09-25
OK - has basic meals...nothing too fancy or adventurous. I bought this new months ago and have yet to cook something from it...just too boring to bother with.
I'm not a fan of soupy, goopy, skillet food...and there appears to be lots of that in here.
Fat out of your diet with food that taste good........2002-08-08
I am a man who has many health conditions--heart problem and diabetic--that require me to reduce the fat in my diet. I have tried all sorts of diets and fads that have come along to assist me. None have worked in the long term. Most are two difficult and time consumming to prepare with portion control that is not suitable to satisfy a man. The recipes in this book are easy to prepare and use the things right off the grocery store shelf. They are satisfying and I don't crave fat things. Ms. Lund states in her book that the preparation of the meal should not take longer than it does to eat it. I could not agree more.
I am a walking testament that the simple to prepare and tasty recipes in this book--especially the desserts--greatly reduce the fat in your diet. A side affect of Ms. Lund's recipes is that reducing the fat is causing me to lose weight without having to eat portions that will only satisfy a mouse. I recommend her book highly.
Book Description
Electric watches, divers’ watches, novelty watches, cool watches from the 60s, and elite watches like the Rolex V and Chronograph I: it’s time for wristwatches to rule the market, and these fabulous examples are coveted as much for style as practicality. More and more people—especially young men—have delved into this collecting area, and an increasing number of auctions and dealers have fueled interest. Take a look at what’s available and what it’s worth, along with an overview of developments in watchmaking decade by decade. Throughout, two-page color spreads compare and contrast pairs of related watches, with analyses of why one is more valuable than the other—whether it’s because of age, authenticity, rarity, maker, material, marks, lack of defects, or later additions and restoration. Also included: an illustrated section on fakes and replicas and how to spot them.
Book Description
The Mexican Style Source Book explores the distinctive architecture of Mexico: from haciendas to columns and arches to palapas. Interiors focus on the textures and materials, including wood, metal, leather, paper, fiber, tiles, ceramics, silver, and stonework. Featured patterns include floral, pictorial, religious, symbolic, and stone relief.
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Holiday Graph Art
ERLING FREEBERG , and
DOLORES FREEBERG
Manufacturer: Teacher Created Resources
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
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Similar Items:
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Challenging Graph Art
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Graph Paper Art
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Math Skills Made Fun: Great Graph Art Multiplication & Division (Grades 3-4)
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Cartesian Cartoons
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Simple Graph Art
ASIN: 1557340935
Release Date: 2004-11-03 |
Book Description
Mystery pictures with a variety of themes magically appear as students follow directions for coloring graph paper squares. Students develop graphing skills while having fun.
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- 36 Years After Viet Nam
- May not be what one expects
- A memorable book
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Remains: Non-Viewable: A Memoir
John Sacret Young
Manufacturer: Farrar, Straus and Giroux
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
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ASIN: 0374249032
Release Date: 2005-04-14 |
Book Description
When John Sacret Young's cousin, Doug was killed in Vietnam, Young learned that the remains of every Vietnam casualty fell into one of two official categories: Viewable or Non-Viewable. He also discovered that such categories applied to how his New England family faced its own history.
This compelling narrative is the haunting story of a man coming to terms with himself, with his family's past, with what he knows and will never know, and with his own future.
Remains: Non-Viewable traces the close-knit lives of four men in Young's family: his uncle George, his cousin Doug, his father, and the author himself. In lyrical yet pungent prose, it illustrates how their seemingly tranquil existence on the Massachusetts shore is affected over the years by war, alcoholism, fading friendships and shifting memories of events gone by.
Beautifully written and profoundly moving, Remains: Non-Viewable, a powerful and persuasive examination of fathers and sons, of war and remembrance, and of family and self.
Customer Reviews:
36 Years After Viet Nam.......2005-09-04
It's hard to remember that it's been so long since the Viet Nam war. Half the people in the country won't remember it at all. If they were born, it was just something that the old people were concerned about. Viet Nam was just something that appeared on the news, and who wanted to watch the news anyway.
For the rest of us, even the title is disturbing -- Remains: Non-Viewable was marked on too many government issue caskets that came back flag draped.
Even if it has been 36 years, the impact of John Young's cousin Doug coming back in a casket is still fresh in the family's collective mind. The results of one young man's being killed affected the family in many ways. This is the story of that affect on four men: John Young himself, his father, his uncle George, his cousin Doug.
The frightening part of this is that the same kinds of affects are now just starting in the families of the young men in Iraq.
May not be what one expects.......2005-08-10
For those expecting a bio of the man behind "China Beach", including insights into that show and its star Dana Delany, this will be a disappointment. Those subjects are covered only briefly, about halfway in.
It's not really a bio, but a collection of vignettes about the author's family, friends, and those he knew or knew about. The backbone of the narrative is the death and funeral of his cousin Doug, who was a victim of friendly fire in Vietnam. The various stories are somewhat randomly pushed on then pulled off the stack in varying depths, making it tough to be sure what he's talking about at times.
A lot of subjects are covered: Young's childhood, conflicts with family, his relationship to Doug, two trips to Vietnam, and more. But none are gone into very deeply, and very little sense of the author's presence in the memoir exists. E.G., one barely gets that he was married, and what eventually became of that, just a couple of curt dialogues are provided.
For those who grew up in a family similar to Young's (uptight New England white upper middle class), this may be nostalgic and cathartic; but for others it may come across as an overblown and disjointed "what I did last summer" report.
A memorable book.......2005-06-30
This is a memorable book. It reads like a close friend sharing from the heart on a long summer evening. Tales from childhood, interwoven with grief and loss in later years. We see a family, connected at arm's length, unable to console each other when the worst happens, Doug, son, brother, and cousin, is killed in Vietnam - `friendly fire'. Like an underground earthquake, the devastation ripples through the family. This is a New England family, and a New England story. The stoicism passed down through generations, silences the family at all levels. The author dares to speak, about loss, love, lust, alcoholism, anger, avoidance, grief, and the ever-enduring ties to family.
There is something for everyone here - personal and professional stories, from Hawaii, to Massachusetts, to Vietnam and Hollywood. A great read.
Books:
- The Little Drummer Girl: A Novel
- The Memory of Old Jack
- The Old Fox Deceiv'd
- The Orchard Keeper
- The Secret Lives of Fortunate Wives
- The Untelling
- The Vintage Book of Contemporary American Short Stories
- The Wake of the Wind: A Novel
- The White Gryphon (Mage Wars)
- The Wind Done Gone: A Novel
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