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Clare's avatar

I read took last year, but even so, this deep reading with you was an eye opener. I loved the pace, and your historical insights were excellent. After a break , I may even reread again. I read an ebook, and I may get a real copy for next time. . I had a grandfather, who was of Polish Jewish decent and was the grandson of a Hasidic rabbi. Therefore, I was aware of some of the background, nevertheless, the book and your notes taught me a lot. Thanks Jeff, and I'm looking forward to September.

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Kathy Grossman's avatar

Thank you for your guidance - I don’t think I could have made it through this book on my own. My husband’s father was born in Poland and came to the U.S. as a child. Poland really was tossed hither and yon through history, wasn’t it? As I finished the book I wondered about cults through history. Jacob seems so similar to modern cult leaders: personal charisma, female followers are the leaders’ harem, total control, etc. So interesting! And the author: a completist for certain. Slow reads are the best.

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reimei2050's avatar

Thank you for your work. It is so good to have reading as a way to survive the insanity of the world today. Best way to nurture the mind and soul. I look forward to your slow read reviews!

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Sandra's avatar

My review of the Slow Books of Jacob experience with the Burning Archive.

I probably wouldn’t have read this book but for this Slow Read program.

I struggled a bit at first, getting lost in the unfamiliar details; however, Geoff’s regular articles helped give context to what I was reading, which I would have otherwise not understood.

The additional notes on Polish-Lithuanian history and timeline help to explain the environment more explicitly in which the characters, both real and imagined, found themselves.

The additional recommended articles, videos and articles also help to enrich the experience.

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