The Book of the Unknown: Tales of the Thirty-six

Title: The Book of the Unknown: Tales of the Thirty-six
Author: Jonathan Keats
ISBN: 0812978978, 9780812978971
Publication: Random House, 10 February 2009

I obtained an Advance Reader's copy of this book, which will be published this week! I'm really excited about it, and think it will be an instant success. The Book of the Unknown combines elements of history, faith, and folklore to create a narrative that's engaging and insightful.

The Book of the Unknown is based on a fascinating concept called the "lamed vov" or the "thirty-six" stating that there is a minimum of 36 righteous individuals living in the world at all times. This Jewish tradition comes from the Talmud, and may have origins in Genesis. Basically, the book is a collection of short stories depicting the lives of a few of the 36 at one point in time. (You can learn more about the Lamed Vov here: http://www.neveshalom.org/html/arts/art_gallery_legend36.htm)

The author gives us a foundational story about a man, John Katz, who finds a manuscript during an archeological dig and holds onto it for many years. The manuscript is a list of his contemporary 36, written by a Kabbalist and buried after his death. Jon Katz begins researching the names on the list, and has combined 12 of their stories for us to enjoy.

What strikes me about the stories are the seemingly degenerate nature of these righteous people. In fact, one of them isn't even human! The author introduces us to a golum (a woman made of mud and brought to life using magic) as one of the lamed vov. Others include at thief, a clown, a negligent sin-eater and an adulterer.

This fascinating fictional account is entertaining, solidly written, and hopeful. I highly recommend this book, and think it would make an excellent gift as well!