Jewish Book & Arts Festival 2023 Digital Brochure

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON

Underwritten by The Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation

51 Years of Authors, Music, Theatre & Films

November 4-18, 2023 1 erjcchouston.org

l e t t e r f ro m c h a i r It is my pleasure and honor to welcome our community to the 51st Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Festival.

This year is one of distinction because not only is it in its second half-century of existence but it is the festival’s 1st year at Our New J, and we are beyond excited to show it off to our Jewish community and the greater Houston community!

We will host events in many of its spaces from the Kaplan Theatre, art gallery, pre-function space and, of course, the new culinary studio. I can’t help but think of the (admittedly) now over-used phrase of “if you build it, they will come,” but it

just feels appropriate in this context because we are ready to welcome all of you with fantastic programming that honors the building for which we all worked so hard and waited so long.

The theme of this festival is quickly becoming the importance of books on education of the world around us. The Sneak

Preview author – and handler for Albert Einstein’s official X (formerly Twitter) account – Benyamin Cohen, will animatedly

remind us of Einstein’s legacy felt in our everyday lives. Thereafter, our Opening Night author and veteran NBC international journalist, Martin Fletcher, will inspire us with his beautiful book, Teachers, about what he has learned about life through

the individuals he has met in their most vulnerable moments. Books inspire, teach, demonstrate, explain, and instill in all of us not only knowledge, but a sense of morality like no other

medium. For this reason, my fearless committee has worked hard to create a festival inclusive of educating our community on the

current issue of Banned Books. There will be a special evening program specifically on this topic and you will hear from a panel

offering various perspectives, as well as have access to resources both in our bookstore and during each program to learn more

about what is happening regarding book banning in our city, state, and country.

Another reason why this festival is special is because of the local talent that is being featured this year. Every year, we have one of our favorite programs, Local Literati, where several local

authors are invited to share their new works. We will continue

that event this year with a very special headliner as Dr. Alex Lazar Chair, Marcy Laviage (center), with Co-Chairs, Christine Laskin (left) and Jeryl Golub (right)

informs us of critical lessons learned during the pandemic.

Additionally, we have a local author as the headliner of his

program with Martin Siegel; a Houston-native author who is

Marilyn Hassid’s pick as her Emerging Novelist with David Biespiel; and our very own, Ellen Leventhal, leading Oliver

Lapin Family Day all in one year! These authors were truly picked because they were the best of the best – even if they

had lived elsewhere – and we are so fortunate to have them all here in our backyard! Houston is truly a hub of innovation, education, and immersion into finding and speaking one’s truth, and we are so proud to welcome these authors home.

The breadth and depth of this festival cannot be accomplished without the help of so many critical individuals. First, my co-chairs and next year’s chairs, Jeryl Golub and Christine Laskin, are two of the finest, kindest, and smartest women

I know who have demonstrated more energy and support for this project than I ever could have imagined. Next year, you are all in for a treat with them at the helm! Our festival committee was unique this year in its immaculate blend of

veteran experience and enthusiastic rookies who all stepped in to take on some big tasks. A special thank you to our brilliant J staff partner, Amy Rahmani, who, as Director of Arts & Culture, gives her heart and soul to this project.

I also want to thank Marissa Cardona, Guy Cohen, Barbara Lindenberg, Laurie Pickei, and all the J staff who supported the festival with their time and boundless energy.

A special thank you goes to our Patrons of the Arts, the Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation and all of our underwriters and community partners. Without you, the opportunity to open the eyes and minds to all of the authors showcased this year would not be possible. Thank you for your truly special gift.

I truly look forward to seeing all of you at this year’s Book & Arts Festival November 4-18th!

Marcy Laviage

Chair, 51st Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Festival

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ta b l e o f co n t e n t s ARTS & CULTURE

Teachers Art Exhibit 9 Writing Workshop 24 FILM: The Books He Didn’t Burn 24 MFAH Tour inspired by The Lioness of Boston 31 CLOSING NIGHT: Michael Schulman 32

BIOGRAPHY

UNTOLD STORIES: Debby Applegate Martin Siegel

CULINARY

Chanie Apfelbaum

CURRENT AFFAIRS

Fred Guttenberg Banned Book Education Program

FAMILY, PARENTING & TEEN PROGRAMMING

PARENTING: Dana Dorfman TEEN NIGHT: Richard Hurowitz Ben Nadler OLIVER LAPIN FAMILY DAY: Ellen Leventhal

HISTORY

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SNEAK PREVIEW: Benyamin Cohen Uri Kaufman Oren Kessler UNTOLD STORIES: Christopher Gorham

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HOUSTON AUTHORS

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MEMOIR

7 15 19 22

FICTION

MARILYN HASSID EMERGING NOVELIST: David Biespiel COMMUNITY READ: Brianna Labuskes

BOOK LOVERS LUNCH: Jennifer Rosner BOOK LOVERS LUNCH: Emily Franklin Danielle Friedman Rosanne Leipzig

Local Literati

OPENING NIGHT: Martin Fletcher YOUNG ADULT NIGHT: Scott Simon

NON-FICTION

Richard Hurowitz Liel Leibovitz Danielle Friedman Rosanne Leipzig

SPORTS 10 14

Joe Posnanski

30 31 34 34 6 12 13 21 10 8 17 15 26 34 34 27

Click on the authors’ names in the table of contents to go straight to their listing in the digital brochure.

Our new digital brochure features full program details and dynamic, interactive content!

A few notes on how to navigate it: Click on this link to take you directly to purchase tickets for that particular event Select programs, notated with this symbol, will be available to view on-demand with a ticket purchase.

The recordings will be available 24 hours after the event and will remain available until the end of 2023. Clicking this icon takes you directly to purchase the on-demand ticket.

All programs will be held at the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, Milton Levit Family Campus unless notated with this map icon. Click the address for directions.

Explore dynamic video content for certain programs. Click these video links to watch.

Learn more about each author by clicking their name in the program listing.

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c a l e n da r SUN DAY

M O NDAY

TUESDAY 1

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26

7:30 PM PARENTING Dana Dorfman When Worry W

7:30 PM SNEAK PREVIEW Benyamin Cohen The Einstein Effect

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1:00 PM LOCAL LITERATI Alex Lazar Lessons from the COVID War 4:00 PM David Biespiel A Self-Portrait in the Year of the High Commission on Love

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12:00 PM Uri Kaufman Eighteen Days in October & Oren Kessler Palestine 1936

7:30 PM Richard Hurowitz In the Garden of the Righteous

6:30 PM Fred Guttenbe American Carn

7:30 PM COMMUNITY READ Brianna Labuskes The Librarian of Burned Books

7:00 PM TEEN NIGHT Richard Hurow In the Garden Righteous

7:00 PM Uri Kaufman Eighteen Days in October & Oren Kessler Palestine 1936

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10:00 AM & 2:00 PM OLIVER LAPIN FAMILY DAY Ellen Leventhal Debbie’s Song

7:30 PM Banned Book Education Program

6:00 PM Liel Leibovitz How the Talmud Can Change Your Life

11:00 AM Hands-On Coo with Chanie A

10:00 AM 4-5TH GRADE RELIGIOUS SCHOOL PROGRAM Ben Nadler The Jewish Deli

7:30 PM Joe Posnanski Why We Love Baseball

1:00 PM Writing Workshop 4:00 PM FILM The Books He Didn’t Burn 7:00 PM Martin Siegel Judgment and Mercy

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All programs will be held at the Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, Milton Levit Family Campus unless notated with map icon.

7:30 PM Chanie Apfelb Totally Kosher

Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Festival

ES DAY

n Works

erg nage

T H U R S DAY

FRIDAY

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9:00 AM PARENTING Dana Dorfman When Worry Works

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4 8:00 PM OPENING NIGHT Martin Fletcher Teachers

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7:30 PM YOUNG ADULT NIGHT Scott Simon Scare Your Soul

11 7:00 PM HOUSTON CONNECT 68 Ben Nadler The Jewish Deli 8:00 PM UNTOLD STORIES: SEX & POLITICS Debby Applegate Madam & Christopher Gorham The Confidante

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oking Class Apfelbaum

SATURDAY

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12:00 PM BOOK LOVERS LUNCH Jennifer Rosner Once We Were Home & Emily Franklin The Lioness of Boston

11:15 AM MFAH Tour inspired by The Lioness of Boston

8:00 PM CLOSING NIGHT Michael Schulman Oscar Wars

Due to circumstances beyond our control, programs are subject to change.

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Thursday

OCTOBER 26

sneak preview

Benyamin Cohen

The Einstein Effect: How the World’s Favorite Genius Got into Our Cars, Our Bathrooms, and Our Minds Thursday, October 26 | 7:30 PM Did you know, despite being deceased for decades, Albert Einstein is one of the most popular celebrities on social media today? With nearly 20 million followers, his accounts are managed by award-winning author and journalist Benyamin Cohen, who takes readers on a global quest to unearth Einstein’s ongoing relevance today. Through encounters with scientists, celebrities, and people with the last name Einstein, he presents an in-depth and humorous look at the world’s favorite genius.

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Wednesday

NOVEMBER 1

Thursday

NOVEMBER 2

Dana Dorfman When Worry Works: How to Harness Your Parenting Stress and Guide Your Teen to Success In conversation with Dr. Ehrin Weiss, Clinical Psychologist

Wednesday, November 1 | 7:30 PM | The J Thursday, November 2 | 9:00 AM Ellen Boniuk Early Childhood School 1120 Dairy Ashford Road

With today’s rising adolescent mental health crisis, where the pressure to achieve is a primary source, Dorfman showcases how parents, who often unknowingly exacerbate the problem from their own achievement anxiety, can strike the balance between supporting their children’s current well-being and setting them up for future success. Relying on thirty years of clinical practice and raising her own children in New York City, Dorfman offers practical strategies to guide day-to-day parenting decisions.

Jewish Book Council

November 1 Tickets

November 2 Tickets

Community Partner: Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Women’s Philanthropy

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Saturday

NOVEMBER 4 opening night Martin Fletcher Teachers: The Ones I Can’t Forget In conversation with Khambrel Marshall, Host of Houston Newsmakers

Saturday, November 4 | 8:00 PM

Throughout his legendary career as an NBC News foreign correspondent and bureau chief, Martin Fletcher was often tasked with encountering people on the worst days of their life. Through his memories and the book’s powerful images, he reflects on the lessons learned from his “teachers” – the ones who, no matter the circumstances, persevered.

At a time when news coverage is often dismissed as biased this is a welcome reminder of the integrity, devotion and empathy that goes into authentic global reporting.

Opening Night reception follows event.

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FREE | Registration Required Here

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Patron Sponsors: Joe Epstein and Melissa Zarikian Jay Steinfeld and Barbara Winthrop

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TEACHERS

by Martin Fletcher e d i t h a n d ro b e rt z i n n a rt g a l l e ry November 4-27 During his time as a journalist, Martin Fletcher has given a new dimension to television news reporting. The exhibition, which accompanies the book features freeze-frames from his television news reports, digitally transformed into powerful moments that do not tell stories but suggest them. They evoke emotions and ask questions. It is where journalism meets art.

The result is intense, authentic and chilling.

PATRONS OF THE ARTS | JOIN TODAY!

Patron of the Arts are dedicated individuals and families who make Jewish art and expression a priority in their philanthropic giving.

Becoming a Patron helps the J continue to present a diverse and stimulating array of literature, film, performing arts and Jewish learning.

The 2023-24 Arts & Ideas season will entertain, educate, and provide connection with the community and Jewish life through an array of diverse and stimulating performances and conversations.

Visit here for more info www.erjcchouston.org/patrons/.

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Sunday

NOVEMBER 5

local literati Alex Lazar

Lessons from the COVID War

FREE | Registration Required Here

In conversation with Dr. Stacey Rose, Associate Professor of Medicine and Infectious Diseases at Baylor College of Medicine

Sunday, November 5 | 1:00 PM

Join us as we hear from Houston authors about their most recent writing endeavors followed by a book signing. We will feature keynote speaker Alex Lazar and his book, Lessons from the COVID War. In the absence of a federal commission on the Covid-19 pandemic, a group of 30+ experts, including Houston surgical pathologist and J board member, Alex Lazar, analyzed America’s Covid response. This powerful report details how we faced the worst peacetime catastrophe and the lessons learned.

Local Literati featured authors include: Larry Dachslager, Judy Haveson, Ben Koshkin, Milton Klein, Arlene Lassin, Eli Sasson, Joseph Schiller, Howard Sherman, Bill Sunshine, Rachel Teichman, Jennifer Tiras, Ronarose Train, and Leonard Zwelling.

Patron Sponsors: Jeremy and Suzan Samuels

m a r i ly n h a s s i d e m e rg i n g n ov e l i st David Biespiel A Self-Portrait in the Year of the High Commission on Love In conversation with Marilyn Hassid

Sunday, November 5 | 4:00 PM

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Growing up in Houston, author David Biespiel was a fixture at the JCC. He returns to Book Festival with his debut novel, set in 1980s Houston. It focuses on two friends, a charmed teen growing up in Jewish Meyerland and his gay best friend of Hispanic Gulfgate. Headed for Galveston Beach, intent on not returning home, the two young men bond over their love of literature and Nolan Ryan’s success on the baseball field. During their travels, they are faced with lifealtering decisions and their consequences.

Patron Sponsors: Barbara and Mark Paull

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Check out your options here!

Sunday

NOVEMBER 5

Monday

NOVEMBER 6

A thought-provoking program to discuss important moments in Israel’s 75-year history that have shaped the country and the Middle East.

In conversation with Bobby Lapin

Sunday, November 5 | 7:00 PM | The J Underwritten by The Maurice Amado Foundation Patron Sponsors: Judy and Ken Arfa, Vicky and Michael Richker, Mitzi Shure and Jerry Wische Supported by the Rosita and Albert Gaon Sephardic Heritage Program Endowment Fund Community Partners: Hebrew Speakers Organization, Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism, Israel Bonds Houston, West Houston Lodge of B’nai B’rith, Jewish War Veterans Post 574

Uri Kaufman Eighteen Days in October: The Yom Kippur War and How It Created the Modern Middle East This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, a conflict that shaped the modern Middle East. Israel came shockingly close to defeat, panicky cabinet members debated using nuclear weapons and Prime Minister Golda Meir resigned in disgrace.

With the perspective of half a century, the war can be seen as a pivotal victory for Israel. The first book to rely on recently declassified information, it contains powerful arguments for rethinking this critical moment in history.

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Kaufman and Kessler

November 5 Tickets

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Kaufman and Kessler cont.

Oren Kessler Palestine 1936: The Great Revolt and the Roots of the Middle East Conflict In 1936 the Arab population of Palestine revolted against the Jewish population and the British Mandate authorities. Lasting three years, the rebellion stemmed from questions of how to divide the land and how to deal with the influx of Jewish people. Costing thousands of lives, it set the stage for today’s Middle East conflict. In his debut book, journalist Oren Kessler probes the roots of the Palestine-Israel conflict to show eight decades later, today’s issues echo those of the past.

Jewish Book Council

Kaufman and Kessler

November 5 Tickets

Recorded On Demand Tickets

lu n c h & l e a r n

Uri Kaufman and Oren Kessler Monday, November 6 | 12:00 PM

Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism 801 Bering Drive

November 6 Tickets

Optional lunch must be purchased by Friday, November 3.

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Monday

NOVEMBER 6 co m m u n i t y r e a d Brianna Labuskes The Librarian of Burned Books: A Novel In conversation with Mark Goldberg, University of Houston History Professor

Monday, November 6 Dinner: 6:15 PM | Author Event: 7:30 PM Community Read is a book club for the entire community. We invite book clubs and individual readers to unite in a shared literary experience.

Inspired by a true story during the WWII era, this captivating novel details the intertwined fates of three women. Each with different backgrounds, locales and motives, these women find themselves working together to stop the censorship of the books being sent to troops who are fighting overseas. With the unifying belief that the power of books can triumph over the darkest moments of war, this story is an unforgettable testament to the beauty, power, and goodness of the written word.

Let us host your book club for a pre-event dinner!

Enjoy dinner together with your friends and have a photo opportunity with Brianna Labuskes. Pre-order a boxed dinner from Laykie’s Café at the J or bring your own, and we’ll provide the wine. When you reserve your event ticket, you will be able to sign-up for a spot at dinner, with options to reserve a boxed dinner and arrange for your group to sit together. Reservations for dinner must be made by Tuesday, October 31 and dinner add-ons must be purchased by Friday, November 3.

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Recorded On Demand Tickets

Patron Sponsors: Debbie and Stuart Diamond Community Partners: ADL Southwest, Congregation Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood, Congregation Emanu El Sisterhood, Program in Jewish Studies at Rice University, Jewish Feminist Reading Group

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Tuesday

NOVEMBER 7

Wednesday

NOVEMBER 8

SHIRLEY AND BILL MORGAN FAMILY HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL FUND

Richard Hurowitz

In the Garden of the Righteous: The Heroes Who Risked Their Lives to Save Jews During the Holocaust In conversation with David Bell

Tuesday, November 7 | 7:30 PM A deep dive into the lives of 10 heroic individuals, none of them Jewish, who repeatedly risked their lives and those of their family members by defying orders to rescue Jews during the Holocaust. This unique bravery makes these acts of kindness even more inspiring. Unfortunately, their stories are not well known, but during this dire moment in history these individuals rose above the darkness to save those being hunted by the Nazis.

Jewish Book Council

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teen night

Wednesday, November 8 | 7:00 PM

Exclusively for Teens Grades 8-12 Holocaust Museum Houston 5401 Caroline Street

Learn more

In collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s Kehillah High, J Teens, BBYO, and Helfman Religious School of Congregation Emanu El

Community Partners: Houston Yiddish Vinkel, Holocaust Museum Houston, Congregation Beth Yeshurun

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Wednesday

NOVEMBER 8 Fred Guttenberg American Carnage: Shattering the Myths that Fuel Gun Violence In collaboration with the Center for the Study of Women, Gender and Sexuality at Rice University

Wednesday, November 8 Reception: 5:30 PM | Lecture: 6:30 PM Rice University | Herring Hall, Room 100 Gray/Wawro Lecture: “Myths that Fuel Gun Violence” Fred Guttenberg is an activist, author, and dad.

He was raising his daughter Jaime to be a strong and independent person who was destined to do great things. Sadly, because of gun violence, he now visits Jaime at the cemetery. In this public lecture, he equips us to work together to stop gun violence in America.

This lecture will bring forward the significance of the Bruen decision (2022) and upcoming Rahimi case concerning gun rights for America’s epidemic of intimate and family violence.

FREE | Registration Required Here

Patron Sponsors: Sherry and Gerald Merfish

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Thursday

NOVEMBER 9 yo u n g a d u lt n i g h t Scott Simon Scare Your Soul : 7 Powerful Principles to Harness Fear and Lead Your Most Courageous Life Presented with the Jerome Robinson Young Adult Division of the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston

Thursday, November 9 Doors Open: 7:00 PM Program Begins: 7:30 PM

Exclusive for Young Adults Ages 22 to 45 Fear and uncertainty can often cause us to freeze, but what if you had the courage to act anyway?

Like a muscle, courage grows stronger the more you exercise it. Learn how to motivate bravery and harness fear as you take small, boundary-pushing actions to expand your comfort zones and scare your soul.

By combining research on positive psychology with real-life stories, this guide complete with writing prompts, activities, and real-world challenges, is an interactive roadmap to building bravery.

Dessert Reception follows program.

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GET INVOLVED TODAY! Athlete Host Family Volunteer Coach Sponsor JCC Maccabi Games® & Access Houston, TX August 4-9, 2024

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC HOUSTON

More information at jcchoustonmaccabi.org!

Saturday

NOVEMBER 11

Sunday

NOVEMBER 12

houston connect 68 Ben Nadler The Jewish Deli: An Illustrated Guide to the Chosen Food Saturday, November 11 | 7:00 PM Exclusively for Grades 6 to 8 Merfish Teen Center 9000 S Rice Avenue

When you walk into a Jewish deli you are overcome by the sights, smells, oversize-portions and towering sandwiches. We’ll be transported on a culinary journey to learn the history, traditions and staples found at the delicatessen counter. Everything from savory schmears and meats to Houston’s own Kenny & Ziggy’s are in this graphic novel by deli aficionado Ben Nadler.

Registration required by November 10.

Register Here

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4 th and 5 th gr ade religious school progr am Sunday, November 12 | 10:00 AM

Presented in collaboration with the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Exclusively for 4TH and 5TH Graders

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Saturday

NOVEMBER 11 u n to l d sto r i e s : s e x & p o l i t i c s

Join as we step into the world where sex and politics collide. This will be a fun and enlightening night, complete with cocktails and lite bites, as two authors regale us with the unknown stories of Polly Adler and Anna Marie Rosenberg, two powerful women who left an indelible mark on history.

In conversation with Norri Leder

Saturday, November 11 | 8:00 PM Patron Sponsors: Christine and Mark Laskin Community Partners: CBS Women - Congregation Brith Shalom’s Sisterhood, Houston Chapter of Hadassah

Debby Applegate Madam: The Biography of Polly Adler, Icon of the Jazz Age How did a “nice Jewish girl” from a Russian shtetl become one of the most notorious Jewish-American women of the 20th Century? Queen of the underworld in Jazz-Age New York, Madam Polly Adler, ran brothels catering to a wide variety of clientele - including the rich and famous. This unorthodox history follows this iconic woman who made her mark in one of the oldest professions, ascending the ranks to be coined as the “female Al Capone.”

Jewish Book Council

Applegate and Gorham

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Untold Stories cont.

DONNA FRANKOFF MEMORIAL LECTURE

Christopher Gorham

The Confidante: The Untold Story of the Woman Who Helped Win WWII and Shaped Modern America Anna Marie Rosenberg, a Hungarian Jewish immigrant who, despite only a high school education, became one of the most influential women in national policies.

As an advisor to four presidents, businesswoman and US public official, the untold story of her life spans the New Deal to the Cold War. Rosenberg fought tirelessly for causes from racial integration to women’s equality to national health care as her life ran parallel to the front lines of history she helped to shape.

Jewish Book Council

Applegate and Gorham

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Sunday

NOVEMBER 12 oliver lapin fa m i ly day ENDOWED IN LOVING MEMORY OF OLIVER LAPIN BY HIS FAMILY

Ellen Leventhal

Debbie’s Song: The Debbie Friedman Story In partnership with PJ Library of the Jewish Federation of Greater Houston

Sunday, November 12 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM For Ages 0-10

Houston’s beloved children’s author, Ellen Leventhal, shares the story of world-renown singer and composer Debbie Friedman. Through vivid illustrations and expressive words, we learn that Debbie’s inspiration came from her time on a kibbutz, where everyone worked, played and sang together. There, she fostered her passion for music to create Jewish songs everyone could sing. Weaving English lyrics with Hebrew prayer, her music was designed to unite people as one in joyful community. Experience the magic of Debbie’s iconic music as it comes alive through a day full of music and exciting activities.

• Discover the “Alef Bet,” by playing a game of Alef Bet Bingo.

• Sing along to “Oseh Shalom” as you create Peace Plate Crafts and Keychains.

• Dance along to “Miriam’s Song” with homemade tambourines and musical instruments.

• Find peace and healing with the “Mi Shebeirach” prayer and family friendly yoga.

FREE | Registration Required Here

• Learn about Shabbat and “Light These Lights” as you create your own candle holders to display your Shabbat candles.

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• Satisfy your latke cravings with the “Latke Song” at our Latke Bar.

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR CAMPS AVAILABLE FOR AGE 3–GRADE 10

Summer 2024

REGISTRATION DAY Members – January 28 at 10:00 AM | Public – January 31 at 9:00 AM CAMP CARNIVAL December 3 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Merfish Teen Center www.erjcchouston.org/summer-camp/

Sunday

NOVEMBER 12 w r i t i n g wo r k s h o p Writing Family and Community Stories: With Inprint Houston

Sunday, November 12 | 1:00 PM

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We all have important stories to share. Inspiration to write these stories can come from all parts of our lives, whether we want to write about our community, our families, or ourselves. Getting started however and putting pen to paper is not always easy. Join Inprint, Houston’s leading literary arts nonprofit organization, at the Book Festival for an Inprint Writing Workout.

Through engaging and interactive activities, you will get a glimpse into the creative writing process and jumpstart your own writing projects. No experience is needed, just a passion to share your story. Supplies will be provided.

film The Books He Didn’t Burn Sunday, November 12 | 4:00 PM

Photo credit: Bayerische Staatsbibliothek München, Bildarchiv

Can literature provide a handbook for mass murder?

Adolf Hitler is better known for burning books then collecting them but, at the end of his life he owned 16,000 books. Narrated by Academy-Award winning actor Jeremy Irons, the documentary follows historian Timothy Ryback, who has studied these books for over a decade. Do the literature books Hitler read in his personal library offer a glimpse into the past and provide rationale to the violence and harm he orchestrated?

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Patron Sponsor: Cyvia Wolff Community Partner: Program in Jewish Studies at Rice University

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Martin Siegel Judgment and Mercy: The Turbulent Life and Times of the Judge Who Condemned the Rosenbergs In conversation with David Mikics, University of Houston English/History Professor

Sunday, November 12 | 7:00 PM

In 1951, the world was focused on the infamous trial of Ethel and Julius Rosenberg, who were charged with atomic espionage. The presiding judge was Irving Kaufman, who sentenced them with the death penalty.

In this compelling biography, Houston attorney Martin J. Siegel, who served as Kaufman’s last law clerk, upends the simplistic portrait of Judge Kaufman and brings his complexities to life. Seen by many as a McCarthyite villain, Kaufman was one of the most illustrious progressive jurists of his day.

Jewish Book Council

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Community Partners: ADL Southwest, Congregation Brith Shalom BACK HOME

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Monday

NOVEMBER 13 b o o k ba n n i n g e d u c at i o n pa n e l Monday, November 13 | 7:30 PM

FREE | Registration Required Here

Register for Recorded On Demand Viewing

This year’s Festival will be covering the timely issue of book banning. Books are at the center of this illuminating panel discussion on censorship and its effects on society. Panelists will include Debby Kerner, a former Harris county school board member; Valerie Koehler, owner of Blue Willow Bookshop; Mark Trachtenberg, an appellate attorney with expertise in the public school system; and Congregation Emanu El Senior Rabbi Oren Hayon.

Evan Mintz, Director of Communications for Arnold Ventures and former deputy opinion editor for the Houston Chronicle, will moderate the panel.

Community Partners: ADL Southwest, American Jewish Committee, Congregation Emanu El, Congregation Beth Israel, National Council of Jewish Women Greater Houston Section

Tuesday

NOVEMBER 14 dinner & learn Liel Leibovitz How the Talmud Can Change Your Life: Surprisingly Modern Advice from a Very Old Book Tuesday, November 14 | 6:00 PM

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With humor and passion, Liel Leibovitz returns to Book Festival to explore the Talmud for its ideas about how to live a good life in the modern world.

The host of Tablet Magazine’s daily Talmud podcast Take One and culture podcast Unorthodox, Leibovitz considers the Talmud humanity’s first self-help book. Weaving together psychology, philosophy, and history with a range of examples like the creation of Weight Watchers and the Dewey Decimal system, we’ll learn how the Talmud’s wisdom can change our lives.

Optional dinner must be purchased by Friday, November 10.

Community Partners: Hebrew Order of David – Lodge Galil & Lodge Tikvah

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Tuesday

NOVEMBER 14

Joe Posnanski Why We Love Baseball: A History in 50 Moments In conversation with Julia Morales, Houston Astros’ sideline reporter

Tuesday, November 14 | 7:30 PM These days Houston LOVES baseball! Celebrated sportswriter Joe Posnanski circles the bases, calling out 50 of the most exceptional moments in the history of the game. You’ll be transported back to the ballpark to relive memorable moments that created legends or may have produced epic errors. Told from a unique perspective, the book covers not only the well-known moments but significant smaller stories from games outside the major leagues. This celebration of baseball will have us cheering from our seats!

Jewish Book Council

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Patron Sponsors: Lauren and Jeremy Blachman Eve and Bobby Lapin Betsy and Ed Schreiber Community Partners: Brith Shalom Men’s Club, Congregation Shma Koleinu

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Wednesday

NOVEMBER 15 Chanie Apfelbaum Totally Kosher: Tradition with a Twist!

150+ Recipes for the Holidays and Every Day: A Cookbook In conversation with Riana Sherman

Wednesday, November 15 | 7:30 PM Founder and creative force behind the popular blog Busy in Brooklyn, Chanie Apfelbaum brings us a modern kosher cookbook with a twist. With more than 150 recipes, this book adds a trendy edge to kosher meals. Chanie’s recipes are playful, delicious and introduce exciting global flavors to Jewish-inspired dishes. She shares meal planning advice, food-prep tips, kitchen hacks, and her favorite pantry ingredients.

Chanie’s reach extends beyond the Jewish world, featuring inventive recipes like “Miso Matzo Ball Soup” and “Berbere Brisket”. Chanie will demo her jeweled hummus recipe on stage with reception following with samples from her cookbook.

Event Tickets

Hands-On Culinary Class with Chanie Apfelbaum Wednesday, November 15 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio Instructor: Chanie Apfelbaum

Culinary Class Tickets

Join Chanie in this intimate daytime cooking class in our culinary studio as the group prepares: • Arugula and delicata squash salad with feta and pistachio dukkah • Chestnut latte soup • Stuffed branzino with sundried tomato tapenade • Spinach artichoke khachapuri • Cinnamon babka straws Community Partner: United Orthodox Synagogues BACK HOME

Advance purchase required by Monday, November 13. Not included in the Book Festival subscription or all Patron of the Arts benefits.

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Monday Thursday

NOVEMBER 16 6 b o o k lov e r s lu n c h

Join us for lunch with friends and these two incredible historical fiction novelists with unforgettable stories. Lunch and one book of your choice is included with your ticket.

In conversation with Ellen Orseck

Thursday, November 16 | Doors Open: 11:30 AM | Program Begins: 12:00 PM Advance purchase required by Monday, November 13. Not included in the Book Festival subscription or all Patron of the Arts benefits.

Patron Sponsor: Joyce Cramer

Jennifer Rosner Once We Were Home: A Novel When your past is stolen, where do you belong?

Based on the true stories of four children, Ana, Oskar, Roger and Renata, all displaced and taken from their families during WWII. As they navigate life and discover their own history, each one grapples with their sense of identity and family. Decades later, their lives converge in Israel and they confront what it really means to have a home.

Jewish Book Council

Book Lovers Lunch

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Book Lovers Lunch cont.

Emily Franklin The Lioness of Boston: A Novel This historical fiction novel is an imaginative portrayal of the life of American art collector Isabella Stewart Gardner. By the time Isabella opened her Italian palazzo-style home as a museum in 1903 to showcase her collection of old masters, antiques, and objects d’art, she was already well-known for scandalizing Boston’s upper-society. After two devasting tragedies, Isabella, determined to live life on her own terms, found the courage to discover her spirit and shatter expectations.

Jewish Book Council

Book Lovers Lunch

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Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Tour inspired by The Lioness of Boston Friday, November 17 | 11:15 AM | Museum of Fine Arts, Houston Join us for a docent led tour at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston based on the artwork and artists featured in The Lioness of Boston. The tour will feature artwork inspired by Isabella Stewart Gardner’s own collections and include commentary on their significance.

Advance purchase required by Monday, November 13.

BACK HOME

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Saturday

NOVEMBER 18 c lo s i n g n i g h t Michael Schulman Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat and Tears In conversation with Ernie Manouse, host of InnerVIEWS

Saturday, November 18 | 8:00 PM America does not have royalty. It has the Academy Awards. For nine decades starlets, leading men and producers have chased the elusive Oscar. This lively history of the Academy Awards focuses on the brutal battles, the rivalries, and the colorful behindthe-scenes drama. Featuring a star-studded cast of the most powerful Hollywood players, as well as outsiders, this book is a collection of tales, representing a turning point for the Academy, for the movies and for the culture at large.

Closing Night reception begins at 7:15 PM

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On Demand Tickets

Patron Sponsors: Lisa and Roy Sheinbaum

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save the date CHILDREN'S SCHOLARSHIP BALL Honoring the Honorable Ellen Cohen and Ellyn Haikin Josef Saturday, March 2, 2024 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC For more information, please visit erjcchouston.org/csb or contact aroseman@erjcchouston.org.

au t h o r s i n co n v e r s at i o n Danielle Friedman

Let’s Get Physical: How Women Discovered Exercise and Reshaped the World Wednesday, January 24 | 7:30 PM For American women today, working out is accepted and expected, fueling a multibillion-dollar fitness industry. It wasn’t always this way.

Seven decades ago, sweating was “unladylike,” and girls grew up hiding their muscles and believing that physical exertion would cause their uterus to “fall out.” Thanks to a few forward-thinking pioneers, women began to move, discovering the joy of exercise which allowed them to feel strong, supported and empowered.

Jewish Book Council

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a rt s i n t h e a f t e r n o o n Rosanne Leipzig Honest Aging: An Insider’s Guide to the Second Half of Life Tuesday, February 27 | 1:00 PM As the overall population increases in age, understanding aging is more important than ever. Dr. Rosanne Leipzig, a geriatrics specialist offers this indispensable guide to the second half of life, describing what to expect physically, psychologically, functionally, and emotionally as you age.

This practical narrative uses candor, humor, and empathy to provide you with knowledge and advice to optimize aging. Patient stories about typical age-related changes help the reader make informed decisions about health care and lifestyle.

Jewish Book Council

Purchase Tickets Community Partners: Erickson Senior Living

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Purchase Your Books to Support the J

BOOKS

THERE ARE SEVERAL WAYS TO BUY A BOOK TO SUPPORT THE J! Visit the Jack Lapin Bookstore at the J throughout the Festival or purchase an author book at an off-site event Purchase a Premium Ticket which includes a book. Books can be picked up at the bookstore during the Festival or at that specific author event.

Online at www.bookshop.org/shop/erjcchouston

hours Sunday – Thursday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM Saturday: 7:00 PM – 9:30 PM

TICKETS

THERE ARE 5 WAYS TO PURCHASE TICKETS OR SUBSCRIPTIONS Become a Patron of the Arts

Buy one of our subscription options

Online at erjcchouston.org

713.729.3200

Visit the Box Office 30 minutes prior to the start of the event at that location.

PURCHASE A BOOK FESTIVAL SUBSCRIPTION

Full Festival Subscriptions give access to all programs* or attend three events with our Pick 3 Subscription. Ticket reservations required for each event. There will not be a pass for automatic entry. *All subscriptions do not include access to Book Lovers Lunch or Hands-on culinary class with Chanie Apfelbaum.

Seating and Ticketing All our events in the Kaplan Theatre are reserved seating. Purchase your tickets early to ensure access to the event.

Viewing Programs Virtually Select programs will be available to view on-demand with a ticket purchase. The recordings will be available 24 hours after the event and will remain available until the end of 2023.

by g e n r e ARTS & CULTURE

Chanie Apfelbaum: Totally Kosher Benyamin Cohen: The Einstein Effect Martin Fletcher: Teachers Emily Franklin: The Lioness of Boston Michael Schulman: Oscar Wars FILM: The Books He Didn’t Burn MFAH Tour inspired by The Lioness of Boston Writing Workshop

BANNED BOOK EDUCATION

Brianna Labuskes: The Librarian of Burned Books Banned Book Education Program FILM: The Books He Didn’t Burn

BIOGRAPHY

Debby Applegate: Madam Ellen Leventhal: Debbie’s Song Martin Siegel: Judgment and Mercy

CHILDREN

Ellen Leventhal: Debbie’s Song Ben Nadler: The Jewish Deli

CULINARY

Chanie Apfelbaum: Totally Kosher Ben Nadler: The Jewish Deli

CURRENT AFFAIRS

Fred Guttenberg: American Carnage Banned Book Education Program

FAMILY

Ellen Leventhal: Debbie’s Song

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FICTION

David Biespiel: A Self-Portrait in the Year of the High Commission on Love Emily Franklin: The Lioness of Boston Brianna Labuskes: The Librarian of Burned Books Jennifer Rosner: Once We Were Home

FILM

Michael Schulman: Oscar Wars FILM: The Books He Didn’t Burn

HISTORICAL FICTION

Emily Franklin: The Lioness of Boston Brianna Labuskes: The Librarian of Burned Books Jennifer Rosner: Once We Were Home

HISTORY

Debby Applegate: Madam Danielle Friedman: Let’s Get Physical Christopher Gorham: The Confidante Uri Kaufman: Eighteen Days in October Oren Kessler: Palestine 1936 Martin Siegel: Judgment and Mercy

HEALTH

Dana Dorfman: When Worry Works Alex Lazar: Lessons from the COVID War Rosanne Leipzig: Honest Aging

HOLOCAUST

Richard Hurowitz: In the Garden of the Righteous Brianna Labuskes: The Librarian of Burned Books Jennifer Rosner: Once We Were Home FILM: The Books He Didn’t Burn

HOUSTON AUTHORS

Alex Lazar: Lessons from the COVID War Ellen Leventhal: Debbie’s Song Martin Siegel: Judgment and Mercy Local Literati

PARENTING

Dana Dorfman: When Worry Works

POP CULTURE

Benyamin Cohen: The Einstein Effect

Benyamin Cohen: The Einstein Effect Danielle Friedman: Let’s Get Physical Ben Nadler: The Jewish Deli Michael Schulman: Oscar Wars

ISRAEL

SELF-HELP

HUMOR

Uri Kaufman: Eighteen Days in October Oren Kessler: Palestine 1936

JEWISH THOUGHT

Dana Dorfman: When Worry Works Rosanne Leipzig: Honest Aging Scott Simon: Scare Your Soul

Liel Leibovitz: How the Talmud Can Change Your Life

SPORTS

LITERARY FICTION

TEENS

David Biespiel: A Self-Portrait in the Year of the High Commission on Love Jennifer Rosner: Once We Were Home

MEMOIR

Joe Posnanski: Why We Love Baseball

Richard Hurowitz: In the Garden of the Righteous

VISUAL ART

Martin Fletcher: Teachers Scott Simon: Scare Your Soul

Martin Fletcher: Teachers Emily Franklin: The Lioness of Boston MFAH Tour inspired by The Lioness of Boston

NON-FICTION

WOMEN’S STUDIES

Debby Applegate: Madam Benyamin Cohen: The Einstein Effect Dana Dorfman: When Worry Works Danielle Friedman: Let’s Get Physical Christopher Gorham: The Confidante Fred Guttenberg: American Carnage Richard Hurowitz: In the Garden of the Righteous Oren Kessler: Palestine 1936 Uri Kaufman: Eighteen Days in October Liel Leibovitz: How the Talmud Can Change Your Life Rosanne Leipzig: Honest Aging Michael Schulman: Oscar Wars

Danielle Friedman: Let’s Get Physical

YOUNG ADULTS

Scott Simon: Scare Your Soul

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f u n d e r s and s u p p o r t e r s Underwritten by the Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation Evelyn Rubenstein JCC Patrons of the Arts

The Ann and Stephen Kaufman Book Festival Endowment Fund

The Maurice Amado Foundation

IN-KIND

PROUD MEMBER OF Jewish Book Council

CO MMUNIT Y PART NERS ADL Southwest

Congregation Shma Koleinu

American Jewish Committee

Erickson Senior Living

Brith Shalom Men’s Club

Hebrew Order of David Lodge Galil & Lodge Tikvah

Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s Kehillah High Jewish Federation of Greater Houston PJ Library

CBS Women - Congregation Brith Shalom’s Sisterhood

Hebrew Speakers Organization

Congregation Beth Israel

Holocaust Museum Houston

Congregation Beth Yeshurun

Houston Chapter of Hadassah

Houston Congregation for Reform Judaism

Congregation Beth Yeshurun Sisterhood

Houston Yiddish Vinkel

NCJW Greater Houston Section

Israel Bonds Houston

Program in Jewish Studies at Rice University

Congregation Brith Shalom

Jewish Federation of Greater Houston

Congregation Emanu El

Jewish Federation of Greater Houston Women’s Philanthropy

United Orthodox Synagogues

Congregation Emanu El Sisterhood

Jewish War Veterans - Post 574

West Houston Lodge of B’nai B’rith

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Jewish Feminist Reading Group

t h a n k s a n d r eco g n i t i o n 2023 Ann and Stephen Kaufman Jewish Book & Arts Festival Committee CHAIR

CO-CHAIRS

Marcy Laviage

Jeryl Golub & Christine Laskin

Danielle Alexander Maida Asofsky Josh Barvin Lauren Blachman Debbie Boniuk Elise Bouchner Lauren Brooks Ady Burgida Nada Chandler Elizabeth Cohen Yvonne Cosgrove Jen Cowan Joe Epstein Emily Feinstein Bari Fishel Laura Freudenberger

Donna Gershenwald Jenny Guftafson Brian Hertz Susan Hertz Hilary Kamin Debbie Kaplan Deborah Kaplan Cindy Kasner Ali Katz Jacqui Koenig Neil Kogut Diane Kraitman Dale Kurtz Sharon Laderman Shirley Lavine

Alex Lazar Ellen Leventhal Esther Levine Glenn Lowenstein Khambrel Marshall Marlene Matzner Barbara Mendel Michelle Moses Cindy Moulton Miriam Pacht Susan Rosenbaum Lindsay Schmulen Lisa Sheinbaum Diane Statham Jody Sweed Vicki Teller

BOOKSTORE VOLUNTEER MANAGERS Esther Chess Linda Chess Carol Emery Ann Glazier Kerry Hoffman

Dale Kurtz Sharon Laderman Ruth Morris Claire Noll Susan Rosenbaum

Leenie Skolnik Paula Stafford Beverly Sufian Judy Weidman Donna Weinberg

EVELYN RUBENSTEIN JCC board president

Debbie Diamond

chief executive officer

Joel Dinkin

arts & culture program coordinator

Guy Cohen

chief program officer

Morgan Steinberg

arts & ideas member service coordinator

Marissa Cardona

arts & culture director

Amy Rahmani

book store manager

Barbara Lindenberg

senior production technicial

Chuck Cutler

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November 4-18, 2023

Underwritten by The Eleanor and Frank Freed Foundation

opening night Martin Fletcher Teachers: The Ones I Can’t Forget Saturday, November 4 | 8:00 PM

c lo s i n g n i g h t Michael Schulman Oscar Wars: A History of Hollywood in Gold, Sweat and Tears Saturday, November 18 | 8:00 PM