My last speaking event in Miami was at the JCC in Davie, and having arrived early, I looked around for something to occupy myself. Turned out this was easy, since there was an art exhibit going on, not an uncommon occurrence at JCC's. I decided to check it out, especially after learning that this was opening night, so there would be a nice little reception.

The artist, Jackie Olenick, was there as well. Most of her new work appeared to be… Continue

*This is a superb novel which should be receiving literary awards, not harassment from jealous and small-minded detractors. It is harrowing, passionate and unforgettable. I can see that Deborah is rightfully determined that it shall not be suppressed, by anybody. May it at last receive the recognition that it so richly deserves.
David Gardiner (UK)

*Last night, after everyone was in bed, I started to read RACHEL SARAI’S VINEYARD and couldn’t stop… it was already 1 o’clock in the morning when I… Continue

[continuation of previous post]
It is in the third chapter of Genesis, where Eve succumbs to the snake's temptation and eats the forbidden fruit, that Rashi goes against the near universal tradition of blaming Eve. He knows these very well, because in Gen 3:8 he states that he's aware of many midrash about this, including Genesis Rabbah, but he's not concerned with them - only with peshat, the plain meaning of the text. Yet Rashi regularly quotes midrash in his other Torah commentaries, s… Continue

Hello fellow members,

On November 9, I'll be reading the chapter of my memoir, "The Winter's Journey of My Youth," that recalls my experience of that fateful night as a German Jew in Nazi Germany. The reading will take place at the Art Gallery of the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan, at 1:30 PM, followed by a discussion and book signing.

I'd like to greet you and invite you to come.

Warmest greetings,

Helen

November 3, 2009

*This is, quite simply, an astonishing book. It confronts the reader with truths that most will never see and all would choose to avoid. But it is so powerfully written, that it blazes. It burns. The style is unique. I can’t think of anyone who writes like this. And I cannot imagine what it must have been like writing it. Putting down on paper the manipulation, the child’s bewilderment, the pain, the hurt. I will be re-reading it, but not until it has worked through me and out… Continue