Jewish Stories to Curl Up with This Winter

As the weather turns and the leaves hit the ground, my one and only aim is to collect books that will make me feel like I'm curled up in front of a fire on a chilly night even if I'm really on my couch with a heated blanket. A truly cozy read, in my opinion, is defined by its ability to keep me present. As the definition of cozy reading is subjective, I've compiled a list of Jewish cozy reads spanning a few genres. Wrap yourself up in your favorite blanket, turn the kettle on, and let's get started.

Historical Fiction

"Kantika" by Elizabeth Graver

"Kantika" appropriately borrowed its title from the Ladino word for "song." This book weaves together the notes of a multigenerational saga into a beautiful story about survival and identity. Rebecca Cohen, a member of the Sephardi elite in 20th-century Istanbul, is forced to move from Spain to Cuba to New York. This book follows her life as she fends for herself while dealing with the trauma and joy that comes with creating her own place in the world.

This book is perfect for those interested in Sephardi history and culture.

"When the Angels Left the Old Country" by Sacha Lamb 

Although "When the Angels Left the Old Country" could be seen primarily as a historical fantasy, the wild tale of Uriel the Angel and Little Ash (Ashmedai the demon) aptly portrays the immigration story of many Americans-specifically Ashkenazi Jews.

When the dreams of America draw away the young residents of the Shtetl (called only "the Shtetl" in the book), Uriel and Little Ash are forced to follow them when one immigrant goes missing in the New World.

This mystery keeps you engaged while opening the door to a historic America that can feel all too familiar.

Fantasy

"The Golem and the Jinni" by Helene Wecker 

A fun historical fantasy, "The Golem and the Jinni" blend together Ashkenazi and Sephardi folklore to create a tale of two soulmates, Chava the golem and Ahmad the jinni.

This magical fable takes place in New York City in the early twentieth century. Chava and Ahmad's friendship, while mostly focused on discovering what it means to be human, encounters a malignant force in the form of an evil kabbalist-adding tension to their journey.

"The Pomegranate Gate" by Ariel Kaplan 

Set amongst the Spanish Inquisition, this fantasy novel blends two worlds wrecked by the Queen of Sefarad's (based on the historical Queen Isabella of Spain) order that Jews must convert or leave the country. Our world and the magical realm are divided by a strange pomegranate grove containing a gate. Toba Peres and Naftaly Cresques find themselves bound by fate as they both flee this mythical version of Spain. Toba is lost through the magical gate and Naftaly vows to find her.

This book is the first in a series. The second novel, "The Republic of Salt" was published in October 2024.

Romance

"The Ex Talk" by Rachel Lynn Solomon 

"The Ex Talk" is a quirky romance read that is set against the background of a Seattle public radio station. Shay Goldstein, a Jewish producer, pitches a new talk show called "The Ex Talk" to draw in listeners. In a twist of fate, Goldstein hosts the show with her coworker (and nemesis) Dominic Yun.

Read how these two hosts navigate the tricky waters of public radio.

"Margo Zimmerman Gets the Girl" by Brianna R. Shrum and Sara Waxelbaum 

A funny queer YA romance, "Margo Zimmerman Gets the Girl" follows Margo Zimmerman as she gets "Queer 101" lessons from fellow student Abbie Sokoloff in exchange for helping her with U.S. History. This light-hearted read blends neurodivergent, queer, and Jewish identities into heartfelt characters you can't help but root for.