"For any who enjoy a feminist Jewish perspective on the biblical era, this start to Goldenberg's Desert Songs Trilogy is not to be missed." -- Booklist, the book review journal of the American Library Association "In the exaltant biblical novel The Scrolls of Deborah, it is women of Abraham's tribe who are the true storymakers." -- Foreword Starred Review
Unveiling the ancient tableaus of the desert, The Scrolls of Deborah is a profound feminist retelling of the Book of Genesis that immerses readers in a breathtaking exploration of female relationships through the story of Biblical characters Rebekah and Deborah.
The Scrolls of Deborah transports us to the awe-inspiring landscapes of the past and uncovers the intertwined lives of Rebekah, a revered matriarch in Judaism, and her devoted handmaiden Deborah. In this mesmerizing tale, their strength, wisdom, and love take center stage, shaping their destinies amid a world steeped in tribal tradition.
With poignant vulnerability, The Scrolls of Deborah, a work of Biblical fiction and the first installment of the Desert Songs Trilogy, illuminates the hidden stories of these remarkable women, whose pivotal roles have often been overshadowed. Against the backdrop of the desert and the opulence of palaces, the narrative weaves a tapestry of captivating tales. Each page reveals stories filled with heartbreak and inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on the very fabric of religious thought.
Through the telling of Deborah's day-to-day life, the book exposes the profound beauty of connection and community, showcasing the transformative power of shared experiences. It invites readers to witness the immense strength found in the bonds between women and how their choices reverberate across generations.
The Scrolls of Deborah is a testament to the enduring legacy of these extraordinary women whose stories challenge and reshape our understanding of history, faith, and the limitless possibilities of the human spirit.
Industry Reviews
Rebekah is an eager student, more sister than master. With Deborah, she breathes in the name of God, stories of Sarah and the matriarchs, and tantalizing tales from distant lands: "I told her about the cats of Egypt and the red radishes and green lettuce and the sweet, juicy melons ... at the market." They grow together, traipsing desert fields and anointing each other with oil. They mark coming-of-age milestones with delight. And when Abraham sends an envoy seeking a wife for his son, they travel together to meet him. While the novel acknowledges hard realities, including era misogyny, slavery, the Akedah, and sexual assault, it does so in an unobtrusive way; its focus is more celebratory. While Deborah--who taught herself to read over Jacob's shoulder--charges gentle Joseph with writing her stories down, they already pulse through the women of her "quite ... remarkable tribe" by virtue of her determined repetition. They dance each month in ceremonies evoking Rosh Chodesh; they bind their family together, uplifting kindness and righteousness. Through their eyes, new depth is revealed in the patriarchs, too: Abraham has regrets; divine light shines forth from Isaac. In the exaltant biblical novel The Scrolls of Deborah, it is women of Abraham's tribe who are the true storymakers.--Michelle Anne Schingler "Foreword Reviews"
