Presents, who doesn’t like presents?

Expectations for the Jewish Book Festival

By Gayle Dorio, 2021-22 Jewish Book Festival chair

And so, it begins! Last month, I heard from many people that the pullout section detailing the Jewish Book Festival was colorful, informative and exciting. This month, in addition to colorful news about the JBF, a bookmark is included! Presents! They just keep coming! In fact, each event should feel like a gift, one we know you’ll enjoy.

Did you realize that we have contributed to Zoom’s increase?! If you search “how many people use Zoom,” you will see the following:

“Counting both free and paying users, Zoom has 300 million daily meeting participants. That’s an increase of 2900% since December 31, 2019, when 10 million daily meeting participants logged on.”

We are fortunate, indeed, to be able to use this technology. 2900% is the kind of number, like 3 trillion, that we can’t even imagine.

I remember when my son was backpacking across Europe. I was nervous not knowing where he was or how he was doing. It was back in 1994, before everyone had cellphones! I couldn’t phone, FaceTime or Zoom to see him and reassure myself that all was well. The only comfort I had was prayer!

Gayle Dorio

Now, we have advanced technology — our watches can practically give us massages along with multiple other functions. Imagine how difficult staying connected to our loved ones would have been if the pandemic had happened 30 years ago!

Through the magic of Zoom, and livestreaming, we are able to relax in our homes and be entertained. What a blessing. I’m so grateful for technology, for the talented people who have worked together to bring you this Jewish Book Festival, and for each of you who support us! Thank you!

So, here it is, November

We have three JBF events this month on Zoom. Our opening event with Heather Cabot is sure to start the season off in an intriguing way — let’s talk about medical marijuana! This book, “The New Chardonnay,” is more than facts and scientific information. It’s story-like, filled with business acumen and political insights.

Be sure to tune in later in the month to enjoy “Can Robots be Jewish?” The author, Amy Schwartz, asked questions of many different rabbis on intriguing subjects. Rabbi Ariel Boxman of Temple Shalom will be in conversation with the author, diving into the various questions. Our third event in November is with Jennifer Rosner and her debut novel, “The Yellow Bird Sings.” We believe we have a varied assortment of subject matter to interest you.

A peek at December

Three events are scheduled in December, the first two on Zoom. We begin Dec. 2 with Judy Batalion, author of “The Light of Days.” Look for the detailed book review written by our own Carole Greene on page 1A of this issue.

On Dec. 10, we will see Lauren Fox on Zoom, speaking about her book, “Send For Me.”

Our event on Dec. 17 is planned to be our first in-person event. We will offer livestreaming during the in-person events, so hopefully, we will be able to gather together and offer you the ability to stay at home and “tune in” if that is more comfortable.

We thought that by Dec. 17, most would be happy to gather together for some laughs and Annabelle Gurwitch with her book, “You’re Leaving When? Adventures in Downward Mobility.” It is sure to provide lots of fun.

We will be keeping an eye on COVID- 19 and hope that it will be possible to gather together. Of course, we will be flexible and adapt to conditions, so no worries.

My expectations for this book festival are sky high! The authors are engaging; the books are well written; the technology exists to enhance the experience; sponsors and patrons have contributed kindly; and all we need is everyone pulling together to stay well, healthy, happy and wise. Not too much to expect, right?

My husband, wise man that he is, often reminds me: Age gracefully, lower your expectations and you won’t be disappointed, and remember gratitude. I am an optimist. We can do this. We will have a super book festival and I am eternally grateful. See you at the events!