Zoli
McCann, ColumThe story of the Slovakian Roma from World War II through the establishment of the Communist bloc, and that of Zoli Novotna whose character is loosely based on the Romany poet, Papusza. As 1930s fascism spreads over Czechoslovakia, Zoli and her grandfather flee to join a clan of fellow Romani harpists. She learns to read and write, later becoming involved with poet Martin Stransk. Her poems are promoted by Martin as the harbinger of a new Gypsy literature. The Communist government, however, appropriates Zoli's work for its project to assimilate the Roma. [Larger font]
Comments from Groups
We enjoyed this book even though it was gloomy. The historical background was interesting, the life of the Romani. Masterton 008 Everybody loved this book...It led to discussion on other marginalised groups such as Aborigines, and some of the policies forced upon this group too. Morrinsville 001 A very powerful novel - amazing research. The portrayal of Zoli was so real. Taupo 004 Generated much discussion. Beautiful prose and descriptive passages. Most of the group were quite ignorant about gypsy people. Tauranga 028 We all enjoyed it greatly. Some of us would like to re-read it to fully appreciate the imagery. Very lively discussion about identity, assimilation, poverty and health. Whitby 003
Pages
279
279
Year
2007
2007
Reviews
21-02-2024
Roughly half really enjoyed it. Some found it brutal, or too long-winded.
21-02-2024
Group members varied widely in their feedback. Some found the story interesting and intriguing while others found it difficult to read and grim, while still others did not like the book or finish it! All agreed that the story echoed that of the Jews who were persecuted by the Nazis.
21-02-2024
We all enjoyed Colum McCann's writing and the research he did before writing this novel. We also appreciated the notes, which enhanced our understanding of the Romani culture and the historical era covered in the novel. We felt that the book could have successfully concluded before Zoli's journey to Paris.
21-02-2024
Excellent overall, and well timed in view of recent events!
08-09-2021
Excellent read - highly recommended. An absorbing insight into Romani culture, and an added interest knowing that the heroine was based on a real person.
22-07-2021
Not sure if we enjoyed the book, and didn't warm to the main character, but we enjoyed the spare writing style - very evocative in few words. And this, more than many other books, prompted a lot of discussion. Glad we read it.
22-07-2021
The group agreed this was a well-written book - very evocative descriptions of places. Most people didn't find the characters fleshed out enough. The early chapters were particularly strong.
22-07-2021
Generated a lot of discussion about culture and loyalty. However we felt we would have liked more detail in some areas of Zoli's life ( such as the 2nd husband) and less about the rugged journey to Paris. A brave move for an Irish male to write about a female Romany culture, but well executed.
22-07-2021
Interesting topic, but most did not like the style of writing.
22-07-2021
We enjoyed learning the history at the same time. Great research was evident. We really enjoyed this.
22-07-2021
We gave it a 4 - a good read.