Queen Esther

Beskrivelse

John Irving revisits the world of his acclaimed novel and The Cider House Rules, focusing on Esther, a Jewish orphan whose life is deeply affected by anti-Semitism. The story follows Esther from her birth in Vienna to her upbringing in a Maine orphanage.

A powerful tale of resilience and compassion set against the backdrop of prejudice and loss.

Born in Vienna in 1905, Esther Nacht faces tragedy early on when her father dies during a voyage to Portland, Maine, and her mother is killed by anti-Semites shortly after their arrival. Taken in by Dr. Wilbur Larch at the St. Cloud's orphanage, Esther’s identity as a Jewish girl named after the biblical Queen Esther becomes clear to him. Dr. Larch understands the difficulty of finding a Jewish family willing to adopt her and fears she may remain unclaimed.

As Esther approaches fourteen and the possibility of becoming a ward of the state looms, Dr. Larch encounters the Winslow family. Although not Jewish, the Winslows have a strong commitment to supporting orphans who remain unadopted, standing firmly against anti-Semitism and all forms of prejudice. Esther’s gratitude toward the Winslows is profound and enduring.

Her journey eventually brings her back to Vienna, where she continues to cherish and protect the family that gave her hope and love despite the challenges she has faced.

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