The Ghost of Hannah Mendes by Naomi Ragen is a beautifully woven tale of family, heritage, and the enduring power of the past. The novel follows Catherine da Costa, a wealthy but terminally ill Jewish matriarch, who seeks to reconnect her estranged granddaughters with their Sephardic Jewish heritage. Her quest is sparked by the ghost of her ancestor, Hannah Mendes, a 16th-century figure who survived the Spanish Inquisition and preserved the family’s legacy.
Ragen masterfully blends historical fiction with contemporary storytelling, juxtaposing Hannah’s struggles during a time of persecution with Catherine’s modern-day journey to instill pride and connection in her family. The narrative is rich with themes of identity, faith, and the importance of understanding one’s roots.
With evocative prose and compelling characters, The Ghost of Hannah Mendes is a heartfelt exploration of history’s impact on the present and a celebration of resilience and cultural continuity. It’s a deeply moving and thought-provoking read.
