"The Books of Jacob" is a historical novel by Olga Tokarczuk, a Polish author and Nobel Prize winner. The story is set in the 18th century and follows the life of Jakob Frank, a controversial religious leader who claimed to be the Messiah. The narrative explores themes of faith, identity, and the complexities of cultural and religious interactions in Europe. The novel is structured as a multi-perspective account, incorporating various voices and viewpoints. It delves into the lives of Frank's followers and the societal challenges they face, highlighting the tensions between different religious communities, particularly Jewish and Christian groups during that era.