Description

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"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

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.

About the Author

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Esther Goldenberg, a Chicago native now residing in Israel, is an author, educator, and mother to two children. Though once a reluctant reader, Esther's innate fondness for captivating narratives led her to discover a deep passion for writing. Her eagerly anticipated debut novel, The Scrolls of Deborah, is a work of Biblical fiction and the first installment of the Desert Songs Trilogy,set to be published in February 2024. Alongside her writing endeavors, Esther remains committed to teaching individuals and groups of all ages, sharing her knowledge and creative insights. In her free time, she cherishes adventures with her children, enjoys communal chanting sessions with her neighbors, and revels in the serenity of nature through leisurely walks.

Praise For…

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What does it mean to know YHWH, the god of all? Furthermore, what does it mean to share a life with those who know and seek to know the same? Goldenberg’s debut novel recounts the journey of Abraham and Sarah’s descendant Deborah as she begins her life in Egypt. She is then forced to travel to her mother’s family in Haran, eventually settling among the tents of her great-grandfather Abraham. There Deborah meets Rebekah, the girl who would become the most important person in her life. As they enter adulthood together, the two women experience womanhood, motherhood, spirituality, interpersonal connections, the beauty and wonder of nature, raising future generations, and sharing the love of YHWH. Most notably, the novel’s framing creates an intimacy and closeness that makes it easy to imagine and connect with Deborah’s emotional highs and lows as well as her deep spiritual connection to her god. 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.
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