Sepharad, by Antonio Muñoz Molina

Sepharad can hardly be called a novel, though it says "A Novel" right on the cover under the title. But as Muñoz Molina notes in the Author's Note, "I have invented very little in the stories and voices that wave through this book." But, of course, novels can be based on true events -- so that's not really the reason I say it can hardly be called a novel. It's almost like a book of short stories, with occasional recurring characters. Almost a book of essays. Almost a memoir? Whatever it is, it's lovely. It's about memory and identity and being away from the place you call home. Muñoz Molina connects centuries of forced and voluntary emigration and demands that the reader identify with emigrants and refugees. The writing and stories are poignant and warm. I really loved this book.