The Frozen Rabbi
Master of Jewish magical realism Steve Stern begins his latest novel with this strange scene: Bernie Karp, an adolescent in suburban Memphis, discovers an old man frozen in a block of ice in his parents’ basement food freezer.
How the Reform Movement is Responding to Hurricane Harvey
We are now starting to get accurate reports of the damage – and they are staggering. Building on our initial response, here are a few new developments and details.
Vayishlach for Teens: Shabbat Sha-raps
In this parasha, Jacob and Esau are going to meet, possibly to fight, but first Jacob meets someone who tells him of his great future. Jacob is renamed Israel (which means “one who wrestles with God”) and goes to meet Esau, and they have a joyous reunion. Isaac then dies, and sadly, so does Rachel as she gives birth to her last child. Listen to learn more about the family.
Leaving Lucy Pear
Award-winning novelist Anna Solomon’s second novel Leaving Lucy Pear, now out in paperback, is a masterfully woven web of ambition and lies.
What Is Jewish About Japan?
My family and I recently spent time backpacking through Japan. Witnessing people at their holy sites, we were struck by how familiar their customs were to us as Jews.
Israeli Birthday Cake
Every birthday deserves a great cake. This iconic, cocoa-based, richly iced cake fits the bill.
Chocolate Challah
This challah is loaded with chocolate flavor, crusty on the outside and chewy inside.
Earning the Privilege of Walking Before God
What Noah is to humanity, Abraham is to the Jewish people. Both were destined to initiate something new: Noah became the ancestor of a renewed humankind; Abraham revolutionized faith by relating to God in a new way.
To the End of the Land
The Israel National Trail, a 600-mile path from Dan to Eilat, is a popular hike for Israelis who want to experience the natural terrains and diverse communities of their country.