Exposure to diverse communities, different cultures and various religions allows people to gain a broader perspective on the world. It is always beneficial to introduce yourself to people who have different backgrounds. A great way to learn about any group is to connect through the art of storytelling, and an opportunity has come for just that. The Jewish community, which has a rich history and plenty to write about, invites you to learn more about Jewish cultural and religious values and issues during the Jewish Federation of Greater Toledo’s 11th annual Northwest Ohio Jewish Book Festival.
“The festival came out of a need to highlight and bring Jewish authors or books with Jewish content to the greater Toledo Jewish community and the community at large,” said René Rusgo, Director of the Jewish Book Festival.
Rusgo also strongly encourages people to come out and enjoy the festival, whether or not they are Jewish, saying “There’s a little bit of everything for everyone, and it is open to the entire community. We are excited to be able to share our authors and venues. We also encourage you to purchase books and support the presenting authors; you never know whom the next big author will be!”
During the festival, several authors will present on their novels and discuss the themes and repercussions of their works. Participants can pick and choose which events they wish to attend, and their registration fees can include the price of the book to keep, if they would like a copy.
Below is a breakdown of all the events you can pick and choose to register for:
Wednesday, Nov. 4
Opening Night
Paris Lamb by Marcia Fine
Mystery and romance are prevalent throughout this thoroughly researched novel. The novel focuses on a biblical archaeologist who must leave his Paris vacation to authenticate relics known as “God’s Gold” after an archaeology professor dies in a very suspicious car accident. You can join the author at this event to learn more about the novel.
Registration deadline: Friday, Oct. 30.
$15/appetizer reception and author presentation, $25/appetizer reception, author presentation and book.
7pm | Highland Meadows Golf Club, 7455 Erie St.
Sunday, Nov. 8
Mitzvahs, Friendships, & Circuses
The Miracle Mitzvah Moose by Dawn Wynne
This pre-K through 2nd grade children’s book relays a message about the importance of doing good deeds, especially during the holidays, and that true joy comes from giving. Children will learn about this through the story of Abbey, who feels out of place in a new home, until she meets a moose.
The Good, The Bad, and The Beagle by Catherine Lloyd Burns
This 3rd through 5th grade book follows Veronica as she ponders whether her parents will ever understand her or whether she will get the pet beagle she’s been wanting. However, Veronica may learn that her parents are more understanding than they seem.
Watch Out for Flying Kids by Cynthia Levinson
This nonfiction book is geared for sixth grade level students and higher. The story focuses on social circus, a movement which brings children together who would not normally get along. The kids’ relationships will evolve as they “learn to walk the tightrope of friendship.”
Each presentation 11am-12pm | Books for sale 10:30am-12:30pm | Book signings 12pm-12:30pm
Temple Congregation Shomer Emunim.
Monday, Nov. 9
Sports Night
FANATICUS: Mischief and Madness in the Modern Sports Fan by Justine Gubar
Four-time Emmy award-winning investigative journalist and ESPN producer, Justine Gubar, sheds light on the experience of devoted sports fan. She focuses on the influence of alcohol availability, social media, fantasy league involvement, outrageous fan anecdotes, and other influences.
Registration deadline: Monday, Nov. 2.
$15/appetizer reception and author presentation. $35/appetizer reception, author presentation and book.
Tailgate party at 7pm | Fifth Third Field First Base Gate next to Swamp Shop on third floor of banquet facility, 406 Washington St.
Tuesday, Nov. 10
Comedy Night
TAKE MY SPOUSE, PLEASE – How to Keep Your Marriage Happy, Healthy, and Thriving by Following the Rules of Comedy by Dani Klein Modisett
Comedian Dani Klein Modisett discovers truths about marriage and comedy through interviews of successful long-term spouses. This celebration of love and humor allows you to learn and laugh.
Registration deadline: Monday, Nov. 2.
$15/appetizer reception and author presentation, $25/appetizer reception, author presentation and book.
7pm | Ice Restaurant & Bar, 405 Madison Ave.
Thursday, Nov. 12
Finale
The Mental Yentl – Stories From a Lifelong Student of Crazy by Sally Fingerett
Through essays, stories, family-secret recipes and song lyrics, Sally Fingerett compiles The stories that inspired some of her most successful songs.
Registration deadline: Monday, Nov. 2.
$10/luncheon and author presentation, $25/luncheon, author presentation and book.
12pm | Congregation B’nai Israel, 6525 Sylvania Ave.
Jewish Book Festival 2015, Nov. 4-12.
Call the Registration Hotline at 419-724-0354 or email [email protected]. jewishtoledo.org/book-festival-2015.
