Center for Jewish Education Celebrates Jewish Authorship with Jewish Book Month Events

Charlotte Jewish News, December, 2024

By Jessica Goldfarb, JFGC Communications Specialist

This year, Jewish Federation of Greater Charlotte’s Center for Education, in collaboration with PJ Library, proudly presents two events in honor of Jewish Book Month, a yearly tradition of honoring Jewish literature, authors, and stories that hold special meaning for Jewish communities worldwide. Originating in the 1920s as a one-week celebration, Jewish Book Month has since expanded to a month-long event with a spotlight on Jewish authorship and storytelling.

Each event is tailored to engage a different age group in the community. The first, “A Morning with Miri,” took place on Nov. 10 and provided an engaging morning for children and families. Renowned Israeli author and illustrator Miri Leshem-Pelly read her book, “A Feather, A Pebble, A Shell,” sharing her love for Israel’s natural beauty. Afterward, she led a hands-on art workshop where children crafted Israel’s national bird, the Hoopoe, using oil pastels and colored paper.

The second event, “Book Talk: An Evening with Lee Yaron,” will take place on Dec. 5, from 7 p.m -8:30 p.m. inviting adults to join a profound discussion with Israeli author and investigative journalist Lee Yaron. Yaron’s book, “10/7: 100 Human Stories,” offers a poignant exploration of the October 7 massacre, commemorating lives lost and sharing stories from communities along Israel’s border with Gaza.

Known for her work with Haaretz as a seasoned journalist, Yaron uses her voice to document deeply human narratives, highlighting resilience, tragedy, and community. “10/7: Human Stories” captures the narratives of diverse groups affected by the October 7 massacre; from the voices of first responders and Nova Festival survivors to Israeli Arabs, pregnant women, and Ukrainian refugees, the book profiles individuals from every site of the attack, illustrating the fullness of their lives, not just their final moments. Limited copies of her book will be available for sale in advance at the Levine-Sklut Judaic Library and at the event, giving attendees a chance to own this powerful account of recent history. The evening is free to attend, but registration is required.

Jewish Book Month is an opportunity for the community to connect with stories that speak to Jewish identity, heritage, and experience. From children’s joyful creation of colorful artwork inspired by Israel’s landscapes to adults delving into significant contemporary narratives, the month exemplifies the transformative power of Jewish literature across generations. For more details about the Dec. 5 event or to register, please visit www.jewishcharlotte.org.