Quick Take

A powerful and moving novel of the early days of colonial New Zealand. A shrewd mission-educated Maori, Coates/Kooti, perceived as a thorn in the colonial flesh, escapes imprisonment and returns to Poverty Bay with a small band of followers. Kooti becomes the ruthless leader of a considerable native army, his Bible studies leading him to see himself and his people as latter-day Israelites. The story of what follows is told through the eyes of Captain Fairweather, a British army officer turned artist, an eminently humane man whose attempts to mend relations between natives and settlers meet with signal failure; while his wryly professional view of the beleaguered colony changes after a brutal attack on the half-Maori women he loves and her family. All main characters in this strange but true novel are historical and the tragic climax occurred in 1869 with the execution of a harmless and uncomprehending young Maori - an example.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Season of the Jew

Introduction

"Season of the Jew" by Maurice Shadbolt is a powerful and moving novel that explores the early days of colonial New Zealand. Set in the 1860s, the story follows the journey of Coates/Kooti, a shrewd and educated Maori leader who perceives himself as a thorn in the colonial flesh. Escaping imprisonment, Kooti returns to Poverty Bay with a small band of followers, eventually becoming the ruthless leader of a considerable native army. Through the eyes of Captain Fairweather, a British army officer turned artist, the novel delves into the complex relationships between natives and settlers in the beleaguered colony. This article will provide an analysis of views, reasons for recommendation, and reasons for not recommending this book.

About Maurice Shadbolt

Maurice Shadbolt was a major New Zealand fiction writer and playwright. He published numerous novels and collections of short fiction, as well as novellas, non-fiction, and a play. Shadbolt's writing often drew on his own family history and explored themes of identity, culture, and history. His extensive literary career earned him numerous fellowships and almost every major literary prize. In 1997, he was capped Honorary Doctor of Literature by the University of Auckland. Shadbolt's ability to weave historical events into compelling narratives makes him a highly regarded author in New Zealand literature.

Analysis of Views

Historical Accuracy: Readers praise Shadbolt's ability to bring historical events to life with accuracy and authenticity. The book is based on real events and characters, making it a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the complexities of colonial New Zealand.
Engaging Characters: The characters in "Season of the Jew" are well-developed and engaging. Readers appreciate the depth and complexity of Kooti, Captain Fairweather, and other historical figures portrayed in the novel. Their interactions and struggles provide a compelling narrative that keeps readers invested in the story.
Themes of Identity and Resistance: The novel explores themes of identity, resistance, and the consequences of colonialism. Readers find these themes resonant and thought-provoking, as they reflect on the complex relationships between natives and settlers in New Zealand's history.
Writing Style: Shadbolt's writing style is praised for its beauty, wit, and ability to convey historical events with depth and nuance. Readers appreciate his ability to create vivid descriptions of landscapes, dialogue-heavy narratives, and rich character development.
Critique of Colonialism: Some readers appreciate Shadbolt's critique of colonialism and his rejection of historical perspectives that gloss over the cruelty and oppression experienced by indigenous peoples. The book provides a nuanced perspective on the conflict between natives and settlers in colonial New Zealand.

Reasons for Recommendation

Historical Significance: "Season of the Jew" offers readers an opportunity to learn about a significant period in New Zealand's history through an engaging narrative. The book provides valuable insights into the Maori-Colonialist conflict, making it a worthwhile read for those interested in understanding New Zealand's past.
Engaging Storytelling: Shadbolt's storytelling skills are highly regarded by readers, who find his ability to bring historical events to life through compelling characters and vivid descriptions to be exceptional. The book is recommended for those who enjoy well-crafted historical fiction that transports readers to another time and place.
Thought-Provoking Themes: The themes of identity, resistance, and colonialism explored in "Season of the Jew" resonate with readers who are interested in exploring these complex issues. The book provides a thought-provoking reflection on the consequences of colonialism and the struggles faced by indigenous peoples in New Zealand's history.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Action: Some readers find that the book drags in certain sections, particularly during the descriptions of fighting and battles. They feel that the pacing could have been improved to maintain reader engagement throughout the narrative.
Colonial Perspective: A few readers express concern about the book's colonial perspective on the Maori wars. They feel that while it provides valuable insights into colonialism, it does not fully acknowledge or address the harm caused by European settlement to indigenous peoples. This may leave some readers feeling conflicted or unenlightened about New Zealand's history.

Conclusion

"Season of the Jew" by Maurice Shadbolt is a highly regarded novel that offers readers an engaging exploration of colonial New Zealand's early days. Through vivid storytelling, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking themes, Shadbolt brings historical events to life with accuracy and nuance. While some readers appreciate its historical significance and engaging storytelling, others find it lacking in action or have concerns about its colonial perspective on the Maori wars. Overall, "Season of the Jew" is a recommended read for those interested in understanding New Zealand's history and exploring themes of identity, resistance, and colonialism through compelling fiction.