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Originally published in 1904, this book was different from most books of its type in its warm and compassionate portrayal of the Jews of Ottoman Palestine. In her original preface, the author points out that you will meet Jews “in whatever direction you may travel.” The reason, she says, is that Jews have no home of their own, “for they are homeless... For many centuries they have been scattered far and wide.”
Today, this is no longer true. Almost since the book was written, Jews have begun coming home to Israel, and to Jerusalem, “the city they love best in the whole world.” The city has changed a great deal since Mary Hazelton Wade wrote those words: it has grown and become a modern capital. Yet the spirit has not.
This book treats the inhabitants of Jerusalem, like the main character Esther (a young child) lovingly and with respect. The author points out that, “It is their religion, and their religion alone” that sustains the Jews as a people.
Esther’s story, as told in this book, is worth reading and sharing as a portrait of Jewish life in early 1900s Ottoman Palestine, but it is also worth reading and sharing as a memento of the timeless Jewish impulses that have kept us going throughout the ages.
FEATURING a new introduction and commentary, along with high-quality images
Images include gorgeous photochrome coloured photographs and other images from the period from 1890-1910 when the fictitious Esther was a girl in Jerusalem.
I hope these add to your enjoyment of the story!
