This first-ever translation of Sholom Aleichem’s rediscovered innovative novel Moshkeleh the Thief has a riveting plot, an unusual love story, and a keenly observed portrayal of an underclass Jew replete with characters never before been seen in Yiddish literature.
Contents
Acknowledgments
Introduction
Chapter 1. Discusses Thieves
Chapter 2. He Displays His Mettle Early On
Chapter 3. His Fight with the Goliath of Zlodeyevke
Chapter 4. He Dislikes Mazepevke Jews, and Justifiably So
Chapter 5. Chaim Chosid’s Daughter Scandalizes Mazepevke and the Town Goes Topsy-Turvy
Chapter 6. Chaim Chosid’s Son-in-Law Has an Idea
Chapter 7. Turns Back for a While to Discuss Lofty Matters
Chapter 8. Which Strays Off Course a Bit, Yet Still Has Relevance to the Novel
Chapter 9. An Undeserved Slap
Chapter 10. Moshke Has a Plan
Chapter 11. A Walk in the Monastery Garden
Chapter 12. Hens Lay Eggs, Jewish Girls Make Babies
Chapter 13. On Philosophy, Love, and Other Matters
Chapter 14. Jews Buy Wine for the Seder
Chapter 15. This Pesach Night
Chapter 16. Monastery Bells Are Ringing
Chapter 17. A Dangerous Leap
Chapter 18. A Posted Letter and Some Comments by the Author
Chapter 19. Henekh the Cantor Looks for a Job
Chapter 20. What a Story! What a Tale!