Fine uncovers the hidden complexity and agency of Talmudic women, challenging stereotypes and revealing proto-feminist insights.
SYNOPOSIS
Gila Fine’s The Madwoman in the Rabbi’s Attic reexam...
2026: New Books. More Flexibility.
Same Great Jewish Bookshelf
Brought to you by the Konikoff Center for Learning
What is the Great Jewish Bookshelf?
The Great Jewish Bookshelf is your gateway to a richer connection to Jewish heritage, culture, and contemporary thought. Designed for Jewish adults, or adults of other faiths interested in learning more about the Jewish experience, this unique subscription program delivers handpicked Jewish literature directly to your doorstep every two months.
Why Subscribe?
Whether you're seeking inspiration from Jewish characters, uncovering the layers of Jewish history, or taking a moment for spiritual reflection, the Great Jewish Bookshelf has something for you. Each book is carefully selected to challenge, enlighten, and resonate with readers, offering a meaningful way for YOU to engage with YOUR Jewish identity.
How It Works
Subscribers can choose to pick up their books every two months at the Simon Family JCC for just $60 a year. Alternatively, books can be delivered directly to a home address for just $78 a year. Subscription costs include 6 curated books, one every two months beginning at your registration.
2026 is expanding from three to five book options every two months. That means more genres, more authors, and more ways to connect with Jewish ideas. You can now start your subscription at any time and enjoy a full year from your personal start date. Each cycle, you’ll choose from five carefully curated titles to make your reading experience your own.
Books are available for pick up at the Simon Family JCC or delivered to your house (whichever you choose) by the 30th of the month. This process repeats on the first of every other month (January, March, May, July, September, & November.)
Overarching Themes:
- Fiction: Lose yourself in compelling stories featuring Jewish characters, experiences, or penned by Jewish authors. (Example: Eternal Life by Dara Horn)
- History/Non-Fiction: Deepen your understanding of Jewish history and contemporary issues that shape our world today. (Example: Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew by Emmanuel Acho and Noa Tishby)
- Jewish Thought: Explore the profound realms of Jewish philosophy, theology, and spiritual practice. (Example: It Takes Two to Torah by Abigail Pogrebin and Dov Linzer)
Connect with the GJB community!
Tidewater subscribers can opt-in to join a community roster, allowing you to connect with others who have chosen the same book, perfect for fostering discussions and building community through shared experiences. Readers can meet for gatherings to discuss the books, and even be reimbursed for some expenses! (see full details under gathering incentives in FAQ section.) Not sure what to discuss at your gathering? Check out our Additional Resouces.
All readers are invited to share your thoughts on each book by posting in the comments section at the bottom of its page. Join the conversation, connect with other readers, and make this forum-style space a lively place to exchange ideas and insights.
Lock in your subscription at last year’s rate. Prices increase on December 15, 2025.
SUBSCRIBE ANY TIME!
NOVEMBER 2025 FEATURED SELECTIONS
-
-
The Genius of Israel examines how Israeli society fosters resilience, innovation, and purpose amid divisions and global societal decline.
SYNOPSIS
The Genius of Israel explores how a small, divid...
-
-
which means "son" in Ladino, follows Rebecca Cohen’s journey across four countries, exploring family, exile, resilience, and the joys and struggles of womanhood.
SYNOPSIS
Kantika by Elizabeth...
FAQs
When does the Great Jewish Bookshelf start?
Your subscription starts when you sign up. Over the period of one year, you will receive 6 books.
What if I already read all the books available that month?
You have two options if you already read the curated books available for the month. First, you can take advantage of a steep discount to select a gift that a loved one or a neighbor would enjoy. Or you can receive that season’s copy of Shalom Hartman Institute’s Sources: A Journal of Jewish Ideas, an award-winning print journal that promotes informed conversations and thoughtful debate about issues that matter to the Jewish community.
Do you ship?
Yes! Choose the shipping option at checkout for delivery - only a $3 upcharge per shipment!
Why should I commit now if I don’t know what all the books will be?
LOCK IN THE 2025 RATES! At $60 for six books (not including shipping, if selected) each book is discounted at between 15-65% off the list price, a bargain for any book lover!
How are the books selected?
Local Jewish clergy and Jewish educators made recommendations which were screened and curated by a selection committee made up of 12 community members passionate about Jewish literature, supporting Jewish authors, and sharing book recommendations with the community. If you are interested in joining the selection committee for the future books, please let us know by emailing Sierra Lautman at SLautman@ujft.org.
How do I connect with others reading the same book for a gathering?
When you make your bi-monthly selection, check the box that says, "I'd like to connect with others reading the same book." After all the submissions are gathered by our team, you will receive an email and contact information with others who want to get together to discuss the book.
You can also share your thoughts on the books on our site at the bottom of each book page!
What incentives do I have to organize a book gathering?
The Konikoff Center for Learning of the United Jewish Federation of Tidewater encourages subscribers to connect with others in the community who have read the same book. To foster these connections, subscribers are eligible for up to $50 in reimbursement toward food and beverage costs for each gathering they host (up to 6 gatherings per year).
To request reimbursement, email Sierra Lautman at SLautman@UJFT.org with the gathering's date, the names of attendees, the book discussed, at least one photo from the gathering, and a picture of the receipt(s).
Can I give a subscription as a gift?
Absolutely! The Great Jewish Bookshelf makes a great gift that your recipient can enjoy year round. At checkout, you will see an area to enter their contact information. We do the rest!
Tidewater's Great Jewish Bookshelf is supported in part by:
