38TH ANNUAL
ST. LOUIS JEWISH
BOOK FESTIVAL
NOVEMBER 6 – 20, 2016
| Plus bookend author events throughout the year
FEATURING SCOTT TUROW AND RABBI HAROLD S. KUSHNER AND MORE THAN 30 PREMIER AUTHORS
Tickets on sale now! 314-442-3299 | stljewishbookfestival.org
A Tradition of Excellence… For nearly four decades, the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival has brought premier authors and performers to the community. November events celebrate Jewish Book Month and writers of all faiths grace our stage throughout the year. Everyone is welcome at the Festival!
PREMIER
PASS
2016
September 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017
Name
Non-Refundable/No Exchanges
Entry for ALL author presentations including the 38th annual Festival (November 6-20, 2016)
All events take place in the Carl & Helene Mirowitz Performing Arts & Banquet Center unless otherwise noted. Jewish Community Center, Staenberg Family Complex, 2 Millstone Campus Drive, St. Louis Missouri 63146
$95
Premier Pass | $95
$650 Value!
Entry into all author programs, including the two keynote conversations, the November Festival – featuring Jewish authors and books of Jewish content – and bookend events year-round.
PREMIER
PASS
2016
Staenberg Family Complex 2 Millstone Campus Drive St. Louis, MO 63146 jccstl.org
Group Tickets
Discounted rates for groups of 10 or more for individual programs.
FREE Student Tickets
Applies to junior high, high school, and college students who show a current ID at the door of any author program.
ts Four ways to purchase ticke
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Charge by phone 314-442-3299
In person Box Office 2 Millstone Campus Dr.
Order online stljewishbookfestival.org
Printable order form stljewishbookfestival.org
Please Note: All Festival ticket and book sales are final, no refunds or exchanges. Due to circumstance beyond our control, programs may be subject to change or rescheduling. Every effort will be made to reschedule or replace a cancelled author. The J will not be liable for non-appearance of any scheduled author or performer. Check Festival hotline 314-442-3299 or stljewishbookfestival.org for any schedule changes. 2 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
FALL BOOKEND EVENTS GERALDINE BROOKS Thursday, October 6 at 7:30pm $25 With more than two million copies of her novels sold, New York Times bestselling author Geraldine Brooks brings us her rich and absorbing new work of fiction about the life of King David. Brooks has the uncanny ability to transform characters from history, and David’s journeys throughout The Secret Chord are a saga of faith, desire, family, ambition, and betrayal. Brooks is the Pulitzer Prize winning author of March, People of the Book, Caleb’s Crossing, and Year of Wonders. She also has published three works of nonfiction: Nine Parts of Desire, Foreign Correspondence and The Idea of Home. Brooks and her husband have two sons, two dogs, three alpacas and a mare. Sponsored by Eileen Schneider Edelman, Fox Family Foundation
JENNIFER WEINER Wednesday, October 19 at 7:30pm $25 Jennifer Weiner’s books have spent more than five years on the New York Times bestseller list with over 11 million copies in print in 36 countries. She has written 17 novels including, In Her Shoes which was turned into a major motion picture starring Cameron Diaz, Toni Collette and Shirley MacLaine. Hungry Heart is her first foray into nonfiction where she takes the raw stuff of her personal life and creates a collection of essays on modern womanhood as uproariously funny and moving as the best of Tina Fey, Fran Lebowitz and Nora Ephron. Sponsored by Cindy Becker in Memory of her mother, Barbara Platzer, Todd Siwak & Gianna Jacobson 314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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Keynote Conversation
SCOTT TUROW Scott Turow is the author of ten bestselling works of fiction, many of which have become hit movies and television miniseries. Presumed Innocent debuted on the big screen in 1987 starring Harrison Ford; The Burden of Proof (1990) featured Brian Dennehy; Reversible Errors (2002) co-starred Tom Selleck and William H. Macy. His books have been translated into more than 40 languages and have sold more than 30 million copies worldwide. Turow graduated with honors from Harvard Law School and continues to work as an attorney in the Chicago office of international firm, Dentons (formerly Sonnenschein, Nath & Rosenthal) while also devoting a substantial amount of time to pro bono efforts. In one such case, he represented Alejandro Hernandez in the successful appeal that preceded Hernandez’s release after nearly 12 years in prison, including five on death row, for a murder he did not commit. His many honors include the Heartland Prize, the Robert F. Kennedy Book Award, Time Magazine’s Best Work of Fiction, and his appointment as president of the Authors Guild. In addition to his fiction, Turow is the author of two works of
Sunday, November 6
non-fiction: One L and Ultimate Punishment.
7:30pm | $45
Turow is active in a number of charitable causes and performs
Interviewed by Michael A. Kahn, Award-Winning Mystery Writer and Trial Attorney
selling authors who raise funds for various literacy organizations.
Takes place in the Gymnasium
4 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
with the Rock Bottom Remainders, a musical group of best-
Monday, November 7
Tuesday, November 8 No programs. Go vote!
STEVEN GAINES 10:30am | $18
From the best-selling author of Philistines at the Hedgerow
One of These Things First
One of These Things First is a poignant reminiscence of a 15-year-old Jewish boy in Brooklyn in the early sixties and his unexpected trajectory from a life behind a rack of dresses in his grandmother’s bra and girdle store to Manhattan’s fabled Payne Whitney Psychiatric Clinic. Throughout this highly engaging memoir, Gaines unveils a wild cast of characters who subtly changed him in the most unexpected ways; among them is a young psychiatrist who promises to cure Gaines of his homosexuality and give him the normalcy for which he so longs.
Wednesday, November 9 THE BREAKFAST QUEEN 10:30am l $18 INA PINKNEY The beloved restauranteur fed people for more than 30 years. When she closed her restaurant’s doors in 2013, it made headlines across the country. Now, the famous dishes that people came to love at Ina’s are showcased in her new book, Ina’s Kitchen. Interspersed with delicious recipes is a heartfelt memoir of Jewish cooking and hospitality. Pinkney, her restaurant, and her catering company have been featured on the Food Network, CNN and in numerous newspapers and magazines.
a memoir
STEVEN GAINES
Steven Gaines is a best-selling author, journalist, and radio show host with 12 books to his credit.
RONALD BALSON 1:00pm l $18 Just when you think there could not be anything new to ferret out from World War II comes a spellbinding novel by the bestselling author of Once We Were Brothers and Saving Sophie. Karolina’s Twins is the story of two girls coming of age in a dangerous time, bearers of secrets that only they could share. In this richly woven tale of love, survival and resilience during some of the darkest hours, the unbreakable bond between girlhood friends will have consequences that last into the future. Sponsored by Booksource, Nancy & Jerry Raskas, Dana & Barry Sandweiss, Marsha & David Soshnik
KRISTALLNACHT PROGRAM 7:30pm l $18 ROBERT P. WATSON Built in 1927, the German ocean liner Cap Arcona was the greatest since the Titanic. When the Nazis seized control of the vessel, she was stripped down for use as a floating barracks and troop transport. But in the Third Reich’s final, desperate days, the ship was mistakenly bombed by the British Air Force, killing the concentration camp prisoners packed aboard. The Nazi Titanic is Watson’s 40th book. In partnership with the Holocaust Museum & Learning Center - in memory of Gloria M. Goldstein.
Samples will be served! Sponsored by Margie & Merle Horowitz, Nancy & Al Siwak
VICTORIA KELLY 1:00pm | $18 Before escape artist Harry Houdini died, he vowed to find a way to speak to his beloved wife, Bess, from beyond the grave. When his widow begins seeing a secret code in seemingly impossible places, it becomes clear that Harry has an urgent message to convey. Mrs. Houdini is a thrilling novel that takes the interfaith couple from the beaches of Coney Island to the palaces of Budapest to the back lots of Hollywood. Victoria Kelly is a graduate of Harvard University, Trinity College in Dublin and the Iowa Writers’ Workshop.
Sponsored by Stan & Jean Margul, The Silk Foundation (Susan Godwin Kofkoff & Richard Kofkoff, Gary Godwin and Deborah Godwin), In Loving Memory of Rubin Feldman by Gloria Feldman & Family 314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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Thursday, November 10 NEIL ABRAMSON
GREG MILNER
10:30am | $18
1:00pm | $18
If you love animals, this is a program not to miss. Neil Abramson is a partner in a Manhattan law firm where he works on a pro bono basis for animal rights. In his new novel, Just Life, Abramson takes his passion for animals and creates a gripping tale you aren’t soon to forget. Veterinarian Samantha Lewis operates a no-kill shelter for abandoned dogs in New York City. When an unidentified, dangerous virus begins spreading through the community, suspicion falls on the dogs as the source. What transpires is a gripping mystery full of political pressure, impassioned advocates, and surprising allies.
Interviewed by Christian Greer, Saint Louis Science Center Milner’s new book, Pinpoint, tells the story of GPS, a scientific marvel that guides us across town, helps planes land, predicts weather, grows our food, and more. While GPS has brought us breathtaking advances, the use and potential misuse of GPS data by government and corporations raises disturbing questions about ethics and privacy. Furthermore, a single GPS timing flaw, whether accidental or malicious, could bring down the electrical grid, hijack drones, or halt the world financial system. Milner’s previous book, Perfecting Sound Forever, was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award.
Sponsored by Lee Bohm, Ann S. Lux
Sponsored by Saint Louis Science Center
MONEY MATTERS WITH KENNETH ROGOFF 7:30pm | $25 Interviewed by Larry Levin, Publisher, St. Louis Jewish Light
Kenneth Rogoff is the former Chief Economist of the International Monetary Fund and was named a Top 15 Most Influential Economist by The Economist Magazine. In his newest book, The Curse of Cash, Rogoff makes a fascinating and persuasive case for phasing out paper money. He reveals that the big problem with currency— large bills in particular—is that in all advanced countries, it’s often used to facilitate tax evasion and criminal activities. Rogoff is the Thomas D. Cabot Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University and the author of the New York Times bestseller, This Time Is Different: Eight Centuries of Financial Folly. He holds the life title of international grandmaster of chess. Sponsored by Abeles and Hoffman, P.C., Brown Smith Wallace, LLC, Capes Sokol, Gail & Louis Glaser, Pulaski Bank - Busey 6 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
“A fascinating and important book.”
– Ben S. Bernanke, former chairman of the
U.S. Federal Reserve
Friday, November 11 FOOD FRIDAY! ZAHAV: A WORLD OF ISRAELI COOKING
FAMOUS NATHAN
10:30am | $18
1:00pm | $18
Interviewed by Margi Lenga Kahn, Food Columnist & Culinary Educator
Interviewed by Margi Lenga Kahn, Food Columnist & Culinary Educator
MICHAEL SOLOMONOV & STEVEN COOK
LLOYD HANDWERKER
Ever since he opened Zahav restaurant in Philadelphia in 2008, chef Michael Solomonov has turned heads with his original interpretations of modern Israeli cuisine. His cookbook, with co-author and restaurateur Steven Cook, earned the James Beard Book of the Year and the Best International Cookbook (2016). Zahav showcases the melting-pot cooking of Israel, especially the influences of the Middle East, North Africa, the Mediterranean, and Eastern Europe.
Starting with just five feet of counter space on Coney Island’s undeveloped boardwalk, Nathan Handwerker opened Nathan’s Famous, a business that quickly spanned the globe, launching the hot dog as an American food staple and Nathan himself to national fame. Lloyd Handwerker, grandson of Nathan, had access to hundreds of valuable resources to retell his family’s story in this book, and to direct the 2014 documentary, Famous Nathan. Some clips from the film will accompany this interview.
Samples will be served! Samples will be served! Sponsored by Julie & Leonard Frankel, Harvey Kornblum Foundation
Sponsored by Kuhn Foundation
Saturday, November 12
DIE LAUGHING: KILLER JOKES FOR NEWLY OLD FOLKS WITH WILLIAM NOVAK 7:30pm | $18 From the co-creator of The Big Book of Jewish Humor comes a laugh-out-loud collection of jokes and cartoons about growing older that deals with memory loss, long marriages, medicine, changes in sexuality, the afterlife, and much more. Join us for a fun-filled evening with author and joke collector, William Novak. Novak is also a highly successful ghostwriter contributing to the bestselling memoirs of Lee Iacocca, Tip O’Neill, Nancy Reagan, Oliver North, Magic Johnson, Tim Russert and Natan Sharansky. Sponsored by Debbie and Mike Lefton
“A priest, a minister and a rabbi finally agree: this is one funny book. Geezer-licious!”
– Jack Handey, author of DEEP THOUGHTS 314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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Sunday, No
SLATKIN AT THE SYMPHONY 3:00pm | Separate ticket required, prices vary This year we invite you to Powell Hall as Conductor Laureate Leonard Slatkin returns to conduct Porgy and Bess. Gershwin’s masterpiece is paired with Copland’s Billy the Kid Suite and Barber’s passionate Piano Concerto. This event requires a ticket purchase. Premier Pass holders receive a 20% discount, and must RSVP by Noverber 1 for a post-symphony reception and Q&A with Leonard Slatkin, by calling the J Box Office for the discount code: 314.442.3299. Light food and drink will be served. Sponsored by The Delmar Gardens Family, Myrtle & Bernard Kornblum’s Changing World Fund, Alan & Sue Wallach
THANK YOU TO OUR JBF CO-CHAIRS FOR TWO WONDERFUL YEARS JUDY BERGER JULIE FRANKEL It has been our priviledge to serve the community for the past two years. We are two of the many sponsors, volunteers and J staff members who make this event possible. To our families and friends, thank you for your support in this incredible journey! With love and gratitude, Judy and Julie
8 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
ovember 13 Keynote Conversation
RABBI HAROLD S. KUSHNER As a congregational rabbi for half a century and the best-selling author of twelve books on faith, ethics, and how to apply the timeless wisdom of religious thought to everyday challenges, Rabbi Harold S. Kushner has demonstrated time and again his understanding of the human spirit. Kushner’s compassionate new work, Nine Essential Things I’ve Learned About Life, is grounded in his brilliant readings of Scripture, history and popular culture. With fresh, vital insight
ere w e f y, s wi in Judaism commandment to a i k h o d h botconscience. er an believe n inre God”), h a s y Ku our he t t d l k e o l o i r is boof Edenestory bi Ha ident. Wh ce(thel hGarden b a ntit),. R , v n c y e as you’ve never heard a c l c a d s Sa thi car d to edand emercy l a a u h n i s (forgiveness is “a h ly ha t c r n s e e e r c n re favor you do yourself, not an Kush plans to i b b o n Ra undeserved gesture to the are e r e h T person who hurt you”), this book is compulsory reading from into belief (“there is no
one of modern Judaism’s foremost sages. Harold S. Kushner is
Sunday, November 13 7:30pm | $45
rabbi laureate of Temple Israel in Natick, Massachusetts, having long served that congregation. He is best known as the author of When Bad Things Happen to Good People.
Interviewed by Rabbi Carnie Shalom Rose, Congregation B’nai Amoona Takes place in the Gymnasium
314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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Monday, No RABBI BEN KAMIN
HOME-GROWN TALENT MISSOURI’S OWN
10:30am l $18
1:30pm | $18 Did you know that Americans—especially young people—are less affiliated with organized religion now than at any other time in our history? You may very well have children or grandchildren to which this reality holds true, or it may be relevant to your own spirituality. Rabbi Ben Kamin’s new book, I Don’t Know What to Believe, addresses this decline and presents insightful guidance for anyone who wants to examine his or her own beliefs and relationship to a higher power. Kamin is the prize-winning author of eleven books on human values, civil rights and spirituality.
Moderator: Dick Weiss, Author and Editor
DIANE EVERMAN Jewish Community of St. Louis: 1890-1929 is a fascinating collection of photographs and text about Jewish immigrants determined to help the St. Louis community evolve and prosper against difficult odds. Philanthropy is one of the many social actions that lead to a better St. Louis: from the Young Men’s Hebrew Association to the Jewish Hospital to the Home for Aged & Infirm Israelites. Diane Everman serves as archivist for St. Louis Jewish Community Archives.
MICHAEL A. KAHN
AUTHOR TESTIMONIALS “I was so delighted to see the enthusiastic turnout. Your J is extraordinary.”
Michael A. Kahn is a St. Louis trial attorney, award-winning mystery writer and adjunct professor of law at Washington University. In Kahn’s new mystery, The Dead Hand, Rachel Gold represents two women— one a widow, one a divorcee—in a pair of nasty lawsuits, the outcome of each hinging upon a clause in a dead man’s document. This is a gripping tale about the living being pulled towards the grave in unexpected ways. The Dead Hand is the 10th book in the Rachel Gold series.
– Ron Balson “Every Jewish author knows that the St Louis Jewish Book Festival is one you don’t want to miss. It’s like getting to attend your book release bat mitzvah!” – Annabelle Gurwitch “I had a fantastic time from start to finish!” – Chef Rossi “Spending an evening with a large group that was engaged and love books is a bibliophile’s delight.” – Leigh Steinberg
HENRY SCHVEY The Poison Tree: A Memoir, is a study of Schvey’s relationship with his father, an illumination of the secret life of a man who was powerful, highly respected, and greatly feared, and a journey—both sad and tragicomic—that ultimately leads to forgiveness. But growing up in his father’s looming shadow, Schvey wondered if he was doomed to repeat the past, doomed to make the same mistakes his father made. Henry Schvey is Professor of Drama and Comparative Literature at Washington University, where he has taught since 1987.
Sponsored by Berger Memorial Chapel/Richard & Linda Stein & Emily Stein MacDonald, Joseph Burstein and Family, In Loving Memory of Geraldine Burstein, Ken & Nancy Kranzberg, Gloria & Sanford Spitzer Foundation, UMSL Center for the Humanities
10 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
ovember 14
CARDINALS SPORTS NIGHT 7:30pm | $25 Moderated by Ben Hochman, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, with introductions by Bill DeWitt III
GARY KODNER
HOWARD MEGDAL
Kodner has followed Cardinals baseball since he was a child, collecting memorabilia and researching the team’s history, not only as a fan but also as a professional graphic artist. He has spent over 30 years of his career as a creative consultant to the St. Louis Cardinals. For his most recent book, St. Louis Cardinals Uniforms and Logos, An Illustrated History, Kodner and his co-authors worked closely with the Cardinals and team president Bill DeWitt III. Kodner’s son and co-author, Oliver, spent countless hours authenticating each uniform kit and logo for every season featured throughout the book.
Baseball journalist Howard Megdal takes fans behind the scenes and off the field, interviewing dozens of key players within the Cardinals organization, including owner Bill DeWitt Jr. The result is The Cardinals Way, an in-depth, fascinating story about a consistently good franchise, the business of sports in the twentyfirst century and a team that has learned how to level the playing field, turning in season after successful season. Megdal lives in New York with his wife and two daughters. This is his fourth book on baseball.
RSVP required, including Premier Pass holders. Seating is limited. Sponsored by Judith & Ted Isaacs, Howard N. Lesser, S. M. Wilson & Co.
314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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NOVEMBER BOOKSTORE HOURS Sunday, November 6 Monday, November 7 Tuesday, November 8 Wednesday, November 9 Thursday, November 10 Friday, November 11
6:30 – 9:30pm
9:30am – 3:30pm 9:30am – 3:30pm 6:30 – 9:30pm 9:30am – 3:30pm
6:30 – 9:30pm
Thursday, November 17 Friday, November 18 Saturday, November 19
Are you confused about vitamins? Unsure which ones you need for optimal health and what levels are safe? In The Vitamin Solution, doctors Romy Block and Arielle Levitan explain which vitamins and supplements can be helpful, which can be harmful, and which are altogether unnecessary. The book also explores health topics including migraines, hair loss, fatigue and hot flashes, as well as preventive care topics such as screening tests and preserving memory. Both doctors practice medicine on the north shore of Chicago.
closed
Sunday, November 13
Wednesday, November 16
10:30am | $18
OPENING NIGHT
6:30 – 9:30pm
6:30 – 9:30pm
Tuesday, November 15
DOCTORS ROMY BLOCK AND ARIELLE LEVITAN
9:30am – 3:30pm
Saturday, November 12
Monday, November 14
Tuesday, November 15
KATE SIEGEL WITH KIM FRIEDMAN 1:00pm l $18
9:30am – 3:30pm
There is nothing more wonderful than a mother’s love. There is also nothing more annoying. Who else can proudly insist that you’re perfect while simultaneously making you question every career, fashion, and relationship decision you have ever made? Author Kate Siegel decided that there was more than enough craziness with her own Jewish mom and began broadcasting their outrageous conversations on social media, leading to Mother, Can You Not?. Today, Kate Siegel and mother Kim Friedman are followed by nearly one million fans around the world. Siegel is a writer, producer, and social media guru. Friedman is an Emmy-nominated television director of shows including Beverly Hills 90210, Square Pegs, Lizzy McGuire and more.
6:30 – 9:30pm 9:30am – 3:30pm 6:30 – 9:30pm 9:30am – 3:30pm 6:30 – 9:30pm 9:30am – 3:30pm 6:30 – 9:30pm 9:30am – 12:30pm 6:30 – 9:30pm
AUTHOR’S ALLEY – THE FESTIVAL BOOKSTORE
Located in the A&E Building Beit Midrash, right off the Main Lobby. Featuring all the authors’ latest titles and books by local Jewish authors, too!
Visit stljewishbookfestival.org to preorder books
Purchase three books at one time and save 10% Not valid on bargain books
Can’t Be Here? Order a personalized, autographed book from the author of your choice. Call 314-442-3299 to arrange for signed books. 12 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
DOV WAXMAN 7:30pm l $18 Waxman’s new book, Trouble in the Tribe, explores the increasingly contentious place of Israel in the American Jewish community. In a fundamental shift, growing numbers of American Jews have become less willing to unquestioningly support Israel and more willing to publicly criticize its government. No longer is Israel the unifying force for American Jewry. Dov Waxman is a professor at Northeastern University. His previous books include The Pursuit of Peace and the Crisis of Israeli Identity and Israel’s Palestinians: The Conflict Within. Sponsored by Jerry & Rosalie Brasch, Debbi Grebler in Memory of David M. Grebler, Rabbi Carnie & Mrs. Paulie Rose
Wednesday, November 16 KENNETH MARCUS
LAUREN BELFER
10:30am | $18
1:00pm | $18
The Definition of Anti-Semitism explores the various ways in which anti-semitism has historically been defined, demonstrates the weaknesses in prior efforts, and develops a new definition, with particular consideration of recent movements in American higher education. Kenneth Marcus founded the Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law to fight campus anti-semitism through legal advocacy, research and education. He is an internationally renowned human rights lawyer, social entrepreneur and thought leader.
What if you stumbled upon a long-lost masterpiece— not a painting, but a mysterious choral composition by Johann Sebastian Bach that could potentially change the course of history? Lauren Belfer, New York Times bestselling author of A Fierce Radiance and City of Light, returns with And After the Fire, a powerful and passionate new novel inspired by historical events. This multi-generational saga interweaves two Jewish women’s lives—one in 18th century Berlin and the other in present day America. Sponsored by The Rubin Family Foundation
COMEDY IN THE KITCHEN: A SPECIAL EVENT FOR LADIES AND GENTLEMEN 6:45pm Snacks and Shopping Reception 7:45pm Program | $25 | Takes place in the Gymnasium RSVPs required by November 9 to 314.442.3299, including Premier Pass holders
CHEF ROBERT ROSENTHAL If you are like many women, you long to have your husband or partner feel more comfortable in the kitchen. Join us for a food-filled evening full of laughs and practical tips to achieve that desire. Chef Robert Rosenthal empowers us all to make food fun and hassle-free. Chef Rosenthal has spent years cooking and performing standup in New York’s top comedy clubs. “I’ve had a love affair with food since I was breast fed,” says Rosenthal. Food from Chef Rosenthal’s book, Short Order Dad, will be available during the reception, along with a variety of shopping vendors. Sponsored by Maxine & Steven Mirowitz
314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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Thursday, November 17 PREMIER
PASS
2016
September 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017
Name
Non-Refundable/No Exchanges
Entry for ALL author presentations including the 38th annual Festival (November 6-20, 2016)
CLAUDIA KALB 10:30am | $18 Was Andy Warhol a hoarder? Did Einstein have autism? Was Frank Lloyd Wright a narcissist? Science journalist Claudia Kalb gives readers a fascinating glimpse into the minds of history’s great personalities. Kalb provides compelling insight into a broad range of maladies, shedding new and important research on the evolution of mental health. From Marilyn Monroe’s borderline personality disorder to Charles Darwin’s anxiety, this is biography as you’ve never experienced it before. Several of the individuals profiled in Andy Warhol Was a Hoarder were Jewish and each had unique ties to the religion.
$95
Premier Pass | $95 PREMIER
PASS
Entry into all author programs, including 2016 conversations, the November the two keynote Festival – featuring Jewish authors and books of Jewish content – and bookend events Staenberg Family Complex 2 Millstone Campus Drive year-round.
ALYSON RICHMAN 1:00pm l $18
$650 Value!
As Paris teeters on the edge of the German occupation, a young French woman closes the door to her late grandmother’s treasure-filled apartment, unsure if she’ll ever return. Inspired by the true account of an abandoned Parisian apartment, Alyson Richman’s new novel, The Velvet Hours, brings together the unlikely relationship between two women who pursue freedom and independence during uncertain times. Richman is the international bestselling author of more than five books including, The Lost Wife, which is currently in development to become a major motion film.
St. Louis, MO 63146 jccstl.org
DON’T FORGET TO RSVP The following events require an RSVP and/or additional ticket. Slatkin at the Symphony November 13 Cardinals Sport Night November 14 Comedy in the Kitchen November 16 Game Day November 18
The following sponsor receptions also require an RSVP. Sponsor Reception after Scott Turow November 6 Sponsor Dinner at the J November 9
BROADWAY: FROM GRIT TO GLITZ 7:30pm l $18 MICHAEL RIEDEL Broadway’s most respected (and feared) commentator pulls back the curtain on its stars, its producers, and its mega-hits to reveal all the shocking drama, intrigue, and power plays that happened off stage. Razzle Dazzle is a provocative, no-holds-barred narrative account of the people and the money and the power that re-invented an iconic quarter of New York City, turning its gritty back alleys and sex shops into the glitzy, dazzling Great White Way. Michael Riedel has been a theater columnist for the New York Post since 1998 and is the cohost of Theater Talk with PBS. Sponsored by Diane & Paul Gallant, Webster University
14 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
Friday, November 18
GAME DAY
WITH KAREN GOOEN 10:30am | $18 | Takes place in the Gymnasium Back by popular demand, a relaxing day with friends and your favorite games—Mah Jongg, Bridge, Scrabble or whatever you prefer. This year, author Karen Gooen begins the program by discussing her new book, Small World, a novel that is part comedy, part drama, with Mah Jongg wisdom spread throughout. It includes the adventures of a pair of Jewish mothers and their daughters in and around a retirement home in suburban New Jersey. Gooen’s previous book, Searching for Bubbe Fischer, has connected her with Mah Jongg players and readers nationwide. Immediately following the author talk and book signing, lunch will be served and attendees will enjoy four hours of game time. Premier Pass holders will receive three complimentary raffle tickets for game-themed prizes. Additional raffle tickets will be available for any attendees to purchase.
Paid reservations of $18 per person required by November 11 to 314.442.3299 for tables of four, including Premier Pass holders. One person from the group should make the reservation and provide all players’ names and lunch choices: Egg Salad, Cobb Salad or Turkey Sandwich
Saturday, November 19
THE SHOW BUSINESS SUPERMENSCH
SHEP GORDON 7:30pm | $25
In the course of his legendary career as a manager, agent and producer, Shep Gordon has worked with, and befriended, some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, from Alice Cooper to Bette Davis, Raquel Welch to Groucho Marx, Sylvester Stallone to Salvador Dali, Luther Vandross to Teddy Pendergrass. He is also credited with inventing the “celebrity chef,” and has worked with Nobu Matsuhisa, Emeril Lagasse, Wolfgang Puck and many others. In They Call Me Supermensch, Gordon recalls his life, from his humble beginnings as a “shy, no self-esteem, Jewish nebbisher kid with no ambition,” to his unexpected rise as one of the most influential and respected personalities in show business, revered for his kindness—and fondness for a good time. Sponsored by Judy & Leslie Berger, Growe Eisen Karlen Eilerts Attorneys at Law, Paul & Betty Mendelson 314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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Sunday, November 20
CAROLE C. LEVIN BALLET PROGRAM
FEATURING THE SAINT LOUIS BALLET 3:00pm | $20 Miriam Mahdaviani, who danced for many years with New York City Ballet, choreographed Between the Lines, a jazzy balletic duet to George Gershwin’s popular Three Piano Preludes, arranged for piano and violin. Syncopated rhythms alternate with the Blues to propel the dancers through this dazzling dance, appropriately set in the reading room of a library. Back by popular demand, the program also includes Mahdaviani’s Mishpacha, the rousing finale of last year’s Jewish Book Festival program accompanied by Klezmer music. In addition to the pieces by Ms. Mahdaviani, the Saint Louis Ballet will perform an original work by artistic director, Gen Horiuchi. Takes place at the Touhill Performing Arts Center - Lee Theater on the UMSL campus
Winter & Spring Bookend Events COMMUNITY MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. EVENT Sunday, January 15 at 7:00pm | $10 CYNTHIA LEVINSON Watch Out for Flying Kids! follows nine teenage troupers in two circuses. The members of Circus Harmony in St. Louis are inner-city and suburban kids. The Galilee Circus in Israel is composed of Jews and Arabs. When they get together, they confront racism in the Midwest and tribalism in the Middle East as they learn to overcome assumptions, animosity, and obstacles that are physical, personal and political. Cynthia Levinson is the acclaimed author of several books of nonfiction including, We’ve Got a Job: The 1963 Birmingham Children’s March. Members of Circus Harmony will perform. In partnership with the Jewish Community Relations Council’s Michael and Barbara Newmark institute for Human Relations together with the Urban League of Metropolitan St Louis.
16 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
Additional bookend events will be announced on our website, stljewishbookfestival.org
2016 FESTIVAL SPONSORS A Special Thank You to all our Sponsors for their Generous and Continued Support! Publisher’s Choice Sponsor Howard N. Lesser
Carole C. Levin
People of the Book Sponsors Debbi Grebler in Memory of David M. Grebler Fox Family Foundation
Messing Scholar in Residence Fund
Authors Circle Sponsors
Berger Memorial Chapel/ Richard & Linda Stein & Emily Stein MacDonald Bernoudy Foundation Lee Bohm Jerry & Rosalie Brasch
Judith Gall Steve & Kimberly Goldenberg Sidney Guller Ann S. Lux Paul & Betty Mendelson
Samuel Krupnick Memorial Scholar-in-Residence Fund Todd Siwak & Gianna Jacobson Gloria & Sanford Spitzer Foundation
Maxine & Steven Mirowitz
TWO PRIVATE RECEPTIONS FOR SPONSORS SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 9
Following the Keynote Conversation with Scott Turow, sponsors are invited to a food and beverage reception and to have your picture taken with our guest of honor. Reception will take place in the Carl & Helene Mirowitz Performing Arts Center and will begin at approximately 8:45pm.
Join us for dinner, music and an evening full of book-themed trivia, raffles and more. Reception will take place in the Carl & Helene Mirowitz Performing Arts Center inside the J and will begin at 6:30pm. RSVP required by November 2 to 314-442-3299
RSVP required by October 31 to 314-442-3299 314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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2016 FESTIVAL SPONSORS Literary Chair Sponsors Abeles and Hoffman, P.C.
Diane & Paul Gallant
Nancy & Jerry Raskas
Capes Sokol
Gail & Louis Glaser
Rabbi Carnie & Mrs. Paulie Rose
Cindy Becker in Memory of her mother, Barbara Platzer
Harvey Kornblum Foundation
The Rubin Family Foundation
Judy & Leslie Berger
Terry & Harvey Hieken
Dana & Barry Sandweiss
Booksource
Margie & Merle Horowitz
Nancy & Al Siwak
Joseph Burstein and Family, in Loving Memory of Geraldine Burstein
Judith & Ted Isaacs
Marsha & David Soshnik
Myrtle & Bernard Kornblum’s Changing World Fund
Saint Louis Science Center
The Delmar Gardens Family
Ken & Nancy Kranzberg
Ultra-Color Corporation
Eidelman & Traub DDS, Inc.
Kuhn Foundation
UMSL Center for the Humanities
Eileen Schneider Edelman
Debbie & Mike Lefton
Alan & Sue Wallach
In Loving Memory of Rubin Feldman by Gloria Feldman & Family
Stan & Jean Margul
S. M. Wilson & Co.
Penny & Marc Alper
Judy Glaser
Adina & Heschel Raskas
Anonymous
Ed & Dorette Goldberg
JoAnn Raskas
Michael Askuvich
Sam Goldstein, CPA, CFP
Marilyn & Gary Ratkin
Fran & Bob Balk
Randy & Nancy Green
Jake & Leslie Reby
Rita & Edward Balk
Keith & Cindi Guller
Betty & Bud Rosenbaum
Barb & Dan Bindler and Susie Knopf & Dr. John Daniels
Dr. Michael & Roberta Gutwein
Michele & Norman Roth/Rindskopf-Roth Chapel
Stuart & Marie Block
Rochelle Kraines Harris in Memory of Les Harris
RubinBrown LLP
B’nai B’rith St. Louis Missouri Lodge
Irene & Jim Hirschfield
Barbara & Don Rubin
Judi Scissors & Sam Broh
Margaret & Martin Israel
Julie & Monte Sandler
Edie & Harvey Brown
Guy B. Jaffe & Judy Schwartz Jaffe Charitable Foundation
Eileen & Larry Schechter
Paul & Elissa Cahn
The Jewish Federation of So. IL, S.E. MO & W. KY
Julian & Helen Seeherman
Alan & Nancy Charlson
Debra & Stephen Jonas
Andy & Stan Shanker
Nonie Cohen & Family
Linda K. Kusmer Total Interior Designs Inc.
Regina M. Shapiro
Florence & Hanley Cohn
Cheryl & Lewis Levey
Michael & Barbara Langsam Shuman
Jeff & Debbie Dalin
Lois C. Levin
The Singer Law Firm, Donald S. Singer, JD, LLM Principal
Jennifer & Jonathan Deutsch
Marla & Bruce Levinson
Ann & Alan Spector
Gail & Charles Eisenkramer
Ronnie & Boobie Light and Family
Paula & Robert Sigel
Stephen & Edie Feman
Merle & Richard Linkemer
Edward Spielberg
Stan & Rochelle Ferdman
Marilyn Lipman
Frank Jay Spielberg
Irene Fox & Floyd Emert
Harriet Lipnick
Julie B. & Tim Stern
Naomi & Shanon Forseter
Jerri & Bill Livingston
Karen Suroff
Dr. Bruce Frank & Enid Weisberg-Frank
Jackie Mayer
Alan & Bonnie Templeton
Julie & Leonard Frankel
Louis Myers
Elaine & Marc Tenzer
Frankel, Rubin, Klein, Dubin, Siegel & Payne, P.C.
Rosalind & Sanford Neuman
Art & Lisa Weiss
Diane Fredman
Phyllis Hyken & Jerry Nuell
Rochelle Weiss & Stephen Loeb
Dr. William & Hillary Friedman
Sima & Michael Oberlander
Dr. Alvin & Ray Wenneker
Cynthia Kagan Frohlichstein & Vivian Zwick
Merle & Marty Oberman
Jim White & Cindy Payant
Carolyn & Chuck Furfine
Lenore & Edwin Pepper
Heide Wolff in Memory of Don Wolff
Debbie Gilula, Judy & Phil Kaplan and Judy & Jerry Zafft
Mary & Sanford Pomerantz
Aleene Schneider Zawada
Pageturner Sponsors
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, the St. Louis Jewish Book Festival is able to promote events year-round, featuring talented, best-selling, award-winning authors and entertainers. This leads to the Festival receiving local and national recognition as the premiere Jewish Book Festival in the United States. Thank you for your support! Our sincere appreciation for sponsorships received after the printing of this brochure. 18 | St. Louis Jewish Book Festival 2016
2016 FESTIVAL CO-SPONSORS Community Co-Sponsoring Organizations American Jewish Committee Anti-Defamation League Missouri/Southern Illinois Bais Abraham Congregation B’nai Amoona Sisterhood Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri Camp Sabra & The Camp Sabra/Hawthorn/ Wah-Kon-Dah Alumni Association Central Reform Congregation Chabad of Greater St. Louis Congregation Shaare Emeth Congregation Temple Israel The Harris-Newman Fund of Women’s Auxiliary Foundation for Jewish Aged International Institute of St. Louis J Adult Services & Kitchen J Department J Associates J Early Childhood Center J Ruth & Harold Sher Center of Jewish Life - Family Center J Sports, Recreation& Aquatics Department J Youth Programs Jewish Community Relations Council Jewish Family & Children’s Service
J-PAT Jewish War Veterans of Greater St. Louis Post 644 Jewish Women International Kol Rinah Sisterhood Midwest Jewish Congress Miriam: The Learning Disability Experts Missouri Writers Guild N’AMAT USA - St. Louis Council National Council of Jewish Women - St. Louis Section Ready Readers Repertory Theatre of St. Louis Saul Mirowitz Jewish Community School Shaving Israel Shir Hadash Reconstructionist Community St. Louis Chapter Hadassah St. Louis County Library St. Louis Jewish Light St. Louis Rabbinical Association Traditional Congregation United Hebrew Congregation - WRJ
Co-Sponsoring Book Clubs A La Carte Barnes-Jewish Hospital Auxiliary Book Clubs Book Babes The Bookees The International Literary Ladies
Jewish Book Group Literary Ladies The Mahj Jong Book Club Novel Women Page Turners
The Roundtable SLU Review Temple Emanuel Book Club The Women’s Club of Washington University Evening Book Group
Please Note: All festival ticket and book sales are final, no refunds or exchanges. Due to circumstance beyond our control, programs may be subject to change or rescheduling. Every effort will be made to reschedule or replace a cancelled author. The J will not be liable for non-appearance of any scheduled author or performer. Check Festival hotline 314-442-3299 or stljewishbookfestival. org for any schedule changes. 314-442-3299 • stljewishbookfestival.org
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2016 St. Louis Jewish Book Festival Executive Board Festival Co-Chairs: Judy Berger, Julie Frankel Vice Chairs Bookstore: Marilyn Brown, Louise Levine Vice Chairs Communications: Linda Kusmer, Paula Sigel Vice Chairs Events: Judy Schwartz Jaffe, Judi Scissors Vice Chair Resources & Special Funding: Regina Shapiro Vice Chairs Special Programs: Gail Eisenkramer, Terry Hieken Vice Chairs Sponsors & Co-Sponsors: Amy Abramson, Eileen Edelman
Important Information for ALL Events All programs take place at the J’s Staenberg Family Complex in Creve Coeur, Carl & Helene Mirowitz Performing Arts Center, unless otherwise indicated.
Committee Chairs Book Clubs: Edie Feman, Bonnie Solomon, Ray Wenneker Bookstore Orders & Inventory: Louise Levine, Marilyn Lipman, Marilen Pitler Bookstore Volunteers: Carolyn Schechter, Sheri Seigel Bookstore Design & Set-up: Sofia Kent, Phyllis Siegel Carole C. Levin Ballet: Carole C. Levin, Laurie Berwald Comedy in the Kitchen: Jen Pines, Dana Sandweiss, Renee Sigel-Hearst, Susie Turkin Concert Event: Debbie Gilula, Judy Kaplan, Jean Margul Co-Sponsoring Organizations: Susan Bosse, Cheryl Perl, Erin Schreiber Food Coordination: Sheryl Feldman, Myrna Hershman Game Day: Marsha Soshnik, Ann Spector Hospitality: Judy Plocker, Eunice Reichman, Scott Schwartz, Barb Williams Missouri’s Own: Jim Bogart, Hillary Friedman, Cynthia Frohlichstein, Sandy Jaffe, Debra Jonas, Gloria Spitzer Raffle Baskets & In-Kind Donations: Myra Rosenthal Sponsor Events: Mickey Roth, Marlene Sachs, Judy Zafft Sports Night: Rhonda Appel, Leslie Berger, Myron Holtzman, Earl Salsman Target Audience: Marcia Lyons, Rita Mendelson Ticketing: Reva Davis, Valerie Shapiro
Staff Festival Director: Scott Berzon J Cultural Arts Director: Zelda Sparks Box Office Manager: Mary Jane Kambal
Free parking is available in the J’s Upper and
Northern lots. Shuttle busses will run in a contiuous loop through all J parking lots for 30 minutes prior to each program and 30 miutes after. Guests are asked to enter through the Arts & Education entrance.
Jewish Book Council The St. Louis Jewish Book Festival is proud to be a long-term partner of the National Jewish Book Council. The following authors are represented by the Council: Ron Balson, Lauren Belfer, Romy Block, Kim Friedman, Steven Gaines, Karen Gooen, Lloyd Handwerker, Claudia Kalb, Rabbi Ben Kamin, Victoria Kelly, Rabbi Harold Kushner, Arielle Levitan, Kenneth Marcus, William Novak, Alyson Richman, Robert Rosenthal, Kate Siegel, Robert Watson, Dov Waxman
Follow us: facebook.com/stljbf @stljbfestival stljewishbookfestival.org
Thank you to Left Bank Books for their long standing support of the festival.
Thank you to our Festival photographer.
Program of the Jewish Community Center