Matti Friedman’s powerful memoir takes readers into the heart of Israeli life and the complexities of its conflicts. Reflecting on his experiences as a soldier, Friedman sheds light on the pain, ...
Welcome to Tidewater’s 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 in January.
Starting January 1, 2025, subscribers will receive a reminder to select a curated book from one of three categories: Fiction, History/Non-Fiction, or Jewish Thought. Subscribers have ten days to review the books and make their selection. The book will then be 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 (March, May, July, September, November)
The flexibility to choose or switch between categories ensures that your reading experience aligns with your personal interests. Plus, 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. (See details about gatherings in FAQ's)
Your Choices
- 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)
JANUARY'S FEATURED SELECTIONS
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In A Letter in the Scroll, Rabbi Jonathan Sacks invites readers to explore what it means to be part of the Jewish story. This passionate work argues for embracing our Jewish spiritual inheritance a...
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This intriguing novel blurs the boundaries between the real and the supernatural, weaving a tale about familial relationships, forgiveness, and the mysteries of life and death.
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This book is a lively, candid, and thought-provoking exploration of the Torah, bringing together Rabbi Dov Linzer, an Orthodox rabbi, and Abigail Pogrebin, a Reform journalist, in a single volume t...
FAQs
When does the Great Jewish Bookshelf start?
Subscriptions open November 1, and books begin shipping in January. If you subscribe later than Jan 15, you will automatically receive an email asking you to select from the month(s) preceding your subscription. Your rate will not be prorated as you will still receive 6 books throughout the year.
What if I already read all the books available that month?
You have two options if you already read the three books available. 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.
What if I subscribe late and a book has already been sent out?
You can subscribe at any time after November 1, 2024. If you subscribe later than Jan 15, you will automatically receive an email asking you to select from the month(s) preceding your subscription. Your rate will not be prorated as you will still receive 6 books throughout the year.
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?
At the rate of $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 2026 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.
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:
