The Golem and the Jinni

Immigration is a prominent implied theme of the novel Why does Wecker use a fantastical premise to address the real-world issue of immigration? Do the fantasy elements serve or hinder her themes? Why or why not? Use examples from the text to support your analysis.

How does Wecker address issues of race, racism, and xenophobia in The Golem and the Jinni? Select at least three different characters and explain how they stand as representations of key elements in these ongoing societal issues.

Why does Wecker decide to set The Golem and the Jinni in New York City in 1899 and 1900? How do the cultural trappings of this specific historical time and place enhance the underlying themes of the novel?

Identify at least three ways in which The Golem and the Jinni explores the conflict of destiny and free will?

The majority of The Golem and the Jinni is focused on various forms of exposition. Why does Wecker wait so long to introduce the main conflict of the story? Is this “slow burn” an effective strategy for intensifying suspense? Why or why not?

Both Chava and Ahmad are enslaved or bound to the will of another at various stages of the novel. How do they differ in their responses to enslavement, and how does Wecker use their experiences to articulate deeper messages about the interplay between enslavement and free will?

Death plays a major role in the events of The Golem and the Jinni. How do the various characters view death, and how do the deaths of certain characters impact those who survive?

Identify at least three abstract ideas that are commonly associated with New York City and explain how these symbols and ideas are reflected in the characters’ hopes, dreams, and fears throughout the novel.