-Recommended by Rosie Ewoldsen

This novel, infused with magical realism, is a story of loss, survival, and spiritual awakening, blending eastern and western sensibilities. The book takes place during the European holocaust and the Hindu Kali Yuga (the “Age of Darkness”). It follows the journey and transformation of Ester Grunspan, who uses her skills as a tailor to navigate war-torn Europe and eventually emigrate to India. The narrator of the story and Esther’s protector over the years is Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu God who destroy obstacles, bestows, wishes, and avenges evils. This is a beautiful and surprising book, unlike anything I’ve ever read, with an ending open to the reader’s imagination and interpretation.

• Recommended by Gail Mishkin