NEWS AND REVIEWS

Books Falafel Nation by Yael Raviv Praise from the Jewish Book Council: “. . . a detailed, meticulously researched, academic assessment of the ways in which Zionist political goals, local demographics and economics, Labor Zionism’s emphasis on the revival of Jewish agriculture on biblical soil, and more all combined to create modern Israeli identity on both national and individual levels . . . a thought-provoking read for someone interested in a detailed, intellectual exploration of the origins of Israeli identity from a new perspective.” So, How Long Have You Been Native? by Alexis C. Bunten Recommendation from Alaska Dispatch News: “Bunten wanders over … Continue reading NEWS AND REVIEWS

NEWS AND REVIEWS

Books Cora Du Bois by Susan C. Seymour Praise from the Los Angeles Book Review: “Seymour’s book reads like a detective novel in parts, a history in others, as she follows the adventurous life of a ‘distant observer of mankind.’ . . . Susan Seymour makes clear the irony of a woman with principle—a patriotic American who attempted to see beyond the present — being first rewarded by her country and then defamed by its intelligence agencies for doing so. There are important contemporary lessons here. If we don’t know where we have come from, we can’t see where our country … Continue reading NEWS AND REVIEWS

NEWS AND REVIEWS

Books Falafel Nation By Yael Raviv Applause from the Kirkus Reviews: “What’s in a falafel? By the lights of food-studies and nutrition adjunct professor Raviv, it’s not just chickpeas and pita bread, but also identity . . . The author is particularly good on pressing the point that such cuisines are seldom fixed but instead constantly adapt as new groups enter and as time changes.” The Heart of the Matter By Arthur Green Recommendation from CHOICE: “The why rather than the how of practicing Judaism is the central focus that draws together this collection of literary essays . . . Green engages with the intricacies of Kabbalah, Hasidic masters, classical … Continue reading NEWS AND REVIEWS

NEWS AND REVIEWS

BOOKS Return to Zion by Eric Gartman Thumbs-up from the Kirkus Reviews: “A thorough, proficient overview that quietly hums a pro-Jewish tune.” Cheated by Jay M. Smith and Mary Willingham A review from CHOICE: “…the authors meticulously lay out the patterns of systemic corruption and lack of institutional control.  This book should be required reading for everyone, both those on campus and fans in the stands or in front of their flat-screens.” Sharing Our Knowledge Edited by Sergei Kan with Steve Henrikson Recommendation from CHOICE: “Typically, the more interesting a book is, the more tangents are available to readers.  This book sent this … Continue reading NEWS AND REVIEWS