This is a compelling, haunting, fast-paced tale with a queer Jewish narrator. The place (late 1800s Chicago) sets the scene for theming around assimilation, injustice, community/belonging, and resilience. 

At its heart, this is a story of oppressed folks on the outskirts of society reclaiming their power. It's a story of justice and a story of vengeance. It's sinister and paranormal (our main character is possessed by a dybbuk) and mysterious .. but also charming and filled with love and a deep appreciation for Jewish culture. 

It was so exciting to see Jewish representation and culture and Yiddish & Hebrew language deeply woven into a story (that is not centered around the Holocaust). Yes, this book was DARK. But there was such comfort (for me) in reading about Jewish customs. I also liked how words & phrases were naturally included within the text (with a separate glossary at the end for those who are unfamiliar). I much prefer this versus over-explaining every term for goyim.

I wanted WAY more Raizel. Please! She was fascinating & I loved the inclusion of the anarchy plotline. 

CW (there are lots): anti-semitism (explicit & in many forms), violence, murder/death, homophobia, sexual assault, rape, pedophilia, fire & fire injury, slurs, xenophobia, grief, animal cruelty & death (slaughterhouse scenes)