And here's some background about the author:
Magic is still a part of modern culture, according to Anton.Modern incantation bowls are already being manufactured.
"A quick Internet search will turn up a wide variety of amulets for sale, some quite similar to those of Rav Hisda's time," she said.
Does St. Christopher ring a bell? A pinch salt tossed over one's shoulder. A rabbit's foot? A four-leaf clover?
"Should my novel become popular, I wouldn't be surprised if Jewish artisans started manufacturing modern incantation bowls," Anton said.
Anton owns two incantation bowls — one in perfect condition, the other broken and repaired — which she bought on a trip to Israel to visit her son who was a student there at the time.
"I sometimes take the broken one to speaking engagements," Anton said.
She is not willing to risk the perfect one.
Background on Anton's novels, including the Rashi's Daughters trilogy, is here and links.
