We are excited to introduce the virtual CAO BookGroup, an enriching initiative spearheaded by congregants Sherry Comerchero and Audrey Goldberg. This group will meet four times a year, with the goal of creating a space where we can deepen our understanding of Jewish culture and history, stimulate intellectual discussion around complex topics, and foster a sense of community through literature.
This is not only an opportunity to delve into thought-provoking literature, but also a way to strengthen the bonds within our congregation. By sharing and discussing these books, we aim to create meaningful conversations that resonate with our collective Jewish identity while embracing a diversity of thought.
The virtual CAO BookGroup will explore four Jewish-themed books annually, carefully chosen to offer a wide range of genres, perspectives, and voices—from local authors to international works, fiction, and non-fiction. As part of our commitment to inclusivity and engagement, participants will receive helpful resources before each meeting, such as discussion questions, podcasts, video clips, or fun facts about the author or book, providing a richer and more interactive experience.
The BookGroup will meet via Zoom on the designated date at 7:00 PM and concludes at 8:30 PM. We invite you to join us for an informal conversation 10 minutes before the start. The meeting will commence promptly at 7. The Zoom link will be included in the weekly newsletter the Friday before the BookGroup meet-up.
Here are a few housekeeping tips:
Our first-ever Book Club welcomed 13 participants to review, Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew. Thank you to Sherry Comerchero, Audrey Goldberg, Arlyne Rosenberg, and Alice Friedenson for chairing the Book Club and moderating such an insightful discussion.
We’ll update you with our next selection shortly. In the meantime, scroll down to read more about our first book.
The book was published on April 30, 2024, and contains 320 pages, including an Antisemitic appendix, Ask Me Anything Jewish definitions, recommendations to read other books on this topic, and notes/bibliography arranged by chapter. It is available for purchase on Amazon, in bookstores, on Audible, etc.
It is also available and can be reserved at your local library. (Worth noting: It is a popular book so check with your library in advance for a reservation.)
Overview of Uncomfortable Conversations with a Jew*
“From two New York Times bestselling authors, a timely, disarmingly honest, and thought-provoking investigation into antisemitism that connects the dots between the tropes and hatred of the past to our current complicated moment. For Emmanuel Acho and Noa Tishby, no question about Jews is off-limits. They go there.
They cover Jews and money. Jews and power. Jews and privilege. Jews and white privilege. The Black and Jewish struggle. Emmanuel asks, “Did Jews kill Jesus?” To which Noa responds, “Why are Jewish people history’s favorite scapegoat?” They unpack Judaism itself: Is it a religion, culture, a peoplehood, or a race? And: Are you antisemitic if you’re anti-Zionist?
The questions – and answers – might make you squirm, but together, they explain the tropes, stereotypes, and catalysts of antisemitism in America today.”
*Source: Amazon
Please send an email, directly to Sherry Comerchero, [email protected]; or Audrey Goldberg, [email protected].
