Module 2 - Golem

GOLEM
Bibliographic Information

•           Wisniewski, D., Salsbery, L., & Clarion Books (New York). (1996). Golem. New York: Clarion Books.

Summary
In Medieval Prague, a rabbi creates a creature from clay to defend and attack oppressors of the Jewish citizens.  The creature is immense in size, extremely powerful, and invincible but gains self-awareness over time and questions its own existence.  The rabbi calls the golem into action by writing a word in Hebrew on its forehead, and makes it rest by erasing a portion of the word.  After righting the wrongs done to many Jewish citizens, the creature is returned to clay against its will by the rabbi.

My Impressions
Golem is a legend of Jewish heritage and this story of the creature is told and illustrated by David Wisniewski.  The golem is a creature made of clay brought to life by a mystical religious power, in this case to protect defenseless Jews in Prague in the 16th century.  The legend had a reported influence on Mary Shelley in writing Frankenstein, and the stories share similarities.  The golem is created from the ground, brought to life by lightning, speaks and reasons, has childlike qualities, is immensely strong and makes those who see it fearful.  I loved this story because is has a few chilling moments, and some heartwarming moments.  Golem won the Caldecott award in 1997.

Reviews
Field, A. (2004) Golem. [Review of the book Golem by D. Wisniewski]. Book Links, 13(5), 27.
Though often viewed as a Frankenstein-like character rather than a true superhero, the immense clay giant Golem, who is brought to life through a rabbi's spell, uses super strength and righteous vengeance to destroy a mob attacking Jews in the ghetto.  The fiery images in Wisniewski's cut-paper illustrations vividly reflect the terror of violent persecution and the rage of Golem.  A lengthy endnote [sic] offers detailed information on the origin of the Golem in Jewish history and theology. --Ann Field, Saint Patrick's School, Washington D.C.

Library Usage
This book would be a great choice for easy genre study representing horror or fantasy, as well as serve for a great resource on multicultural legends.  It would also be a great read near Halloween, and students could take modeling clay or computer drafting programs to create their own golem!