(Fiction, 311 pp. Yiddish, 1962; English translation, 1962)
Jacob, a pogrom survivor who has been sold as a slave to Polish peasants, lives a simple life in a remote village. Contrary to both Jewish and secular law, he falls in love with the daughter of his Christian owner, and together they begin a new life in another shtetl. Set in 17th century Poland, this dark and passionate allegory is considered Singer’s most lyrical and well-constructed novel.
- Review: Kirkus
- Review by Orville Prescott, New York Times, July 6, 1962
- Plot Summary from Wikipedia
- “Jacob” from Wikipedia
- “Polish Plait“ from Wikipedia
- Biographical sketch
