This is what I wrote in 2008 about this read: "Engaging tale of four generations of Jeruselum Jews, members of the family Shepher. Tale full of yearnings and disappointments in the midst of strong traditions, family ties, and scholarship. Great grandfather's (Shalom Shepher's) search for the lost tribes of Israel yields a mysterious and treasured Codex; slight and fun mystery in the present Shepher family." ( )

This book was a riveting read for me. I really enjoyed the glimpses into the past given through the writings, as well as the complex interplay between family members and the sense of place given through the descriptive prose.

The author brings some stunning imagery to this novel, but that is all there is to it. Overall, the plot of this story is slow moving and thin. Although the author does a great job of giving the story a sense of time and space, it simply isn't enough to keep the poorly paced narrative moving. If I hadn't received this from early reviewers, I never would have finished it. ( )

Very interesting and well-written book, but I was not certain regarding the ending. The family's history is interesting, as is Shula's present life. If the writing had not been so good, I would not have been as interested in the family history. ( )

Pretty decent first novel which is perhaps a little over complex , there are some very short chapters based on biblical musings that could easy be ommitted without any loss to the plot . The plot is very subtly presented and the book progresses slowly and although entertaining is not gripping. I am also unsure if the use of its 'jewishness' as a marketing tactic will be effective in the UK as the book will interest the wider reading public as well as the compartivly small jewish market.
Interesting first novel which although slow to develop is well worth reading ( )