From the life of famed Rebbe Menachem M. Schneerson to a book about putting cell phones away and forming closer human interactions, the Lee and Bernard Jaffe* Family Jewish Book Festival’s first events spanned an array of interesting topics.
Kicking off the festival on Sunday, Nov. 2, local author, Danielle Leibovici, taught children fun techniques about how to look at the world in a positive light in her book, Under the Tree.
Rabbi Joseph Telushkin was the keynote speaker the following evening, returning to the Sandler Family campus to present his latest work, Rebbe, to a group of nearly 200.
An evening of self-discovery took place on Wednesday, Nov. 5, when Ari Goldman presented his memoir Late Starters Orchestra. Goldman’s message was that as people age, it’s important not to forget to continue or rekindle one’s passions, such as returning to play the cello, as he did. The audience enjoyed a brief live performance by Alan Bartel on flute before discussion and a dessert reception.
On Thursday, Nov. 6, Cantor Mitch Kowitz presented his ideas for putting pizzazz into soups, salads and more in his Kosher Cuisine for a New Generation. Lunch at this event was generously sponsored by Beth Sholom Village Caterers, with Jewish Family Service also partnering.
* of blessed memory
The Simon Family JCC is a constituent agency of United Jewish Federation of Tidewater.