Michael Brenner's book explores the complex history of the Zionist movement's quest for a "normal" Israel, highlighting the diverse views within early Zionism.

The Altneuschul, or Old-New Synagogue in Prague, is surrounded by folklore that speaks of old stones from the Temple in Jerusalem, the creation of a golem by Rabbi Judah Loew, and a legend involving a black cat turning coal into gold and leading a man to Jerusalem.