Anita Diamant’s New York Times bestselling novel The Red Tent follows the story of Dinah, the sole daughter between Jacob and his four wives. Intricate storytelling and descriptions of ancient pastures and cities weave together fact and fiction, building upon Bible stories of old and supplying voices to the forgotten characters. Diamant’s retelling of iconic events such as Jacob’s marriages to Leah and Rachel provides a wholly new, feminist perspective on social and familial ties during the time period. A superb retelling of the book of Genesis, The Red Tent is a must read for anyone interested in tales from the Bible.
Opening Line: “We have been lost to each other for so long.”
Favorite Line: “Of all life’s pleasures, only love owes no debt to death.”
Why I Like It: It’s a fresh perspective on the musty, overtold stories of the Bible.
Read If You Like: Biblical stories, mother-daughter relationships, female solidarity, coming-of-age