The Finkler Question
The Finkler Question
Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
London • Contemporary
2010
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Finkler Question by Howard Jacobson explores the complex relationships and identities of three friends—Julian Treslove, Sam Finkler, and Libor Sevcik—as they navigate their senses of Jewish identity within a historically antisemitic society, ultimately grappling with friendship, loss, and self-discovery.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Humorous
Bittersweet
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
16,591 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Finkler Question by Howard Jacobson is widely praised for its witty prose and deep exploration of Jewish identity and friendship. Critics commend its blend of humor and serious themes. However, some find its satirical tone overly cynical and the pacing uneven. Overall, it offers a thought-provoking yet polarizing read.
Who Should Read The Finkler Question?
A reader who enjoys The Finkler Question by Howard Jacobson is likely drawn to literary fiction with complex characters, themes of identity and friendship, and a sharp, satirical narrative. Fans of works like Portnoy's Complaint by Philip Roth or White Teeth by Zadie Smith would find this novel engaging.
16,591 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Finkler Question won the 2010 Man Booker Prize for Fiction, making Howard Jacobson the third Jewish author to receive the prestigious award.
The novel delves into themes of Jewish identity and anti-Semitism, a topic Jacobson has explored in other works, establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary Jewish literature.
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Howard Jacobson humorously described his reaction to winning the Booker Prize as being one of surprise, akin to having been "given a good bashing over the head."
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320
Novel • Fiction
London • Contemporary
2010
Adult
18+ years
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