The Koren Graphic Novel Esther

“The Koren Tanakh Graphic Novel Esther” is an excellent volume that will be enjoyed by young and old. The biblical story of Esther and Mordecai’s struggle against antisemitism in ancient Persia has fascinated people of all religions for centuries. The events are celebrated joyously by the holiday of Purim instituted by ordinary people, not rabbis nor Jewish leaders. The people were fascinated by the events. The rabbis accepted the holiday celebration of what transpired only after the people created the practice. This is what the book itself says. With its graphic drawings, this volume will enlighten and bring smiles to people who read it.

Because of the broad interest and enjoyment of the Esther story, many graphics exist. This book is one of the best. Instead of the usual English translation, the 178-page book has the biblical Hebrew with the often-praised unique Koren forms of the Hebrew letterings on pages left. In contrast, many graphic portrayals of the Hebrew with modern English translations are shown on the right. The drawings are eye-catching. Esther is beautiful. We see the emotions on her face and in her actions. Mordecai looks pious. The king looks dumb and fat. With his Adolph Hitler-type mustache, Haman seems like a conniver; we see it in his eyes.

Jews and non-Jews of all ages can benefit by reading the Esther story in its graphic manner. The drawings show matters that readers of the Hebrew and English fail to see. There is more depth in the illustrations. There is more to enjoy and think about.