The St. Louis Jewish Book Festival is an annual celebration of authors, books, and ideas during early November, with additional author events year-round. The range of author topics is vast: business, cooking, economics, family, fiction, history, music, religion, sports, and more.

Now in its 45th year, the Festival is nationally recognized for both its excellence and its size - it is one of the largest in the country with more than 10,000 audience members annually. People from all backgrounds and religions come to Festival events to hear premier speakers, share their thoughts, and ask questions.

Schedule of Events:

November 2, 2024

7:00 pm: Opening Night - Mickey Bergman

In The Shadows: True Stories of High-Stakes Negotiations To Free Americans Captured Abroad

Step into the high-stakes world of international negotiations with Mickey Bergman, a former IDF paratrooper and prominent figure in global diplomacy. In In the Shadows, Bergman shares gripping, real-life accounts of negotiations involving Americans held abroad, including the harrowing stories of Brittney Griner and Otto Warmbier. With firsthand experiences and insights gained while working alongside Bill Richardson, Bergman reveals the delicate interplay of power, ethics, and humanity in the quest for justice. This evening promises not only to educate but also to inspire deep reflection on the lengths to which we will go to rescue those we love.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 3, 2024

7:30 pm: The Humor in Literature Panel - Noah Rinsky

The Old Jewish Men's Guide to Eating, Sleeping and Futzing Around

Dive into the whimsical world of Noah Rinsky's Old Jewish Men's Guide, a captivating compilation of the beloved Instagram account that celebrates the humor found in everyday Jewish life. With a treasure trove of memes and social media gems, Rinsky highlights the endearing idiosyncrasies that make us laugh and connect us across generations, proving that humor is a vital part of our cultural identity.

Reuven Fenton - Goyhood

In his debut novel, Goyhood, Reuven Fenton spins an extraordinary tale of self-discovery that blends humor with profound life lessons. Join a devoutly Orthodox Jewish man as he embarks on a remarkable road trip upon discovering, in midlife, that he is not actually Jewish. Fenton masterfully interweaves comedy with poignant moments of realization, creating a narrative that is reminiscent of Chaim Potok's The Chosen combined with the uproarious adventures of Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Prepare for an evening filled with laughter and reflection on identity, belonging, and the unexpected turns life can take.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 4, 2024

5:00 pm: Adam Nimoy

The Most Human: Reconciling with My Father, Leonard Nimoy

Join Adam Nimoy for an emotionally charged exploration of family dynamics and personal growth in his poignant memoir, The Most Human. As the son of the legendary Leonard Nimoy, Adam delves into the complexities of their relationship, revealing the struggles and triumphs that shaped their bond. Through heartfelt anecdotes and honest reflections, he shares how his father's legacy influenced his views on love, marriage, parenting, and the journey toward sobriety. This intimate discussion promises to resonate with anyone who has grappled with the complexities of familial relationships and the search for identity amidst personal challenges.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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7:30 pm: Brian Levant and Fred Fox Jr.

50 Years of Happy Days: A Visual History of An American Television Classic

Relive the magic of television's golden age with Brian Levant, one of the original writers of the iconic series Happy Days. In this captivating multimedia presentation, Levant takes the audience behind the scenes, sharing never-before-seen blooper reels, heartfelt stories, and fascinating insights about the beloved characters that captured the hearts of viewers. Join us for a nostalgic evening filled with laughter and reflection on the cultural impact of this classic show, celebrating the legacy of joy it continues to bring to audiences of all ages.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 7, 2024

1:00 pm: Arthur Gale Series - Benjamin Ginsberg

The New American Anti-Semitism: The Left, the Right, and the Jews

John Hopkins Professor shares how a culture of separateness and high achievement makes Jews vulnerable to political pathologies from both the left and right.

Location: Kaplan Feldman Holocaust Museum

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Women's Night "A Romatic Affair"

6:30 pm: Reception
7:30 pm: Women's Night Event

Julia Quinn - Bridgerton Series

Step into the enchanting world of Julia Quinn, the creative force behind the Bridgerton series, which has taken the literary and television world by storm. Quinn shares her journey of crafting compelling narratives filled with wit, romance, and unforgettable characters. Discover the inspirations behind her beloved stories and how they resonate with audiences across generations.

Felicia Grossman - Once Upon the East End: Wake Me Most Wickedly

Felicia Grossman discusses her captivating romance set against the backdrop of turn-of-the-century London. With rich historical detail and a focus on Jewish identity, Grossman weaves a tale that is both enchanting and thought-provoking.

Location: The J, Edison Gymnasium

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November 8, 2024

1:00 pm: Historical Fiction Panel

Emily Matchar - In the Shadow of the Greenbrier: A Novel

Immerse yourself in Emily Matcher's evocative family saga set in the heart of Appalachia. Through richly drawn characters and intricate storytelling, Matcher explores themes of love, resilience, and the enduring bonds of family, creating a narrative that resonates with emotional depth and historical authenticity.

Michael J. Cooper - Wages of Empire: A Novel

Michael J. Cooper recounts the harrowing journey of a young man navigating the tumultuous landscape of World War I and its complex origins in Ottoman Palestine. With gripping prose and vivid imagery, Cooper's narrative sheds light on the human experiences that shaped this pivotal moment in history, making it a compelling read for history enthusiasts and fiction lovers alike.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 9, 2024

7:30 pm: A Night of Theater, Featuring Special Performances by New Jewish Theatre

Eddie Shapiro - Here's to the Ladies: Conversations with More of the Great Women of Musical Theater

Celebrate the remarkable women who have shaped musical theater with renowned theater journalist Eddie Shapiro. In this engaging event, Shapiro is joined by three talented stars from New Jewish Theater's upcoming musical, sharing performances and anecdotes that showcase the impact of female superstars in the industry. With laughter and heartfelt stories, this evening promises to be a joyous tribute to the artistry and influence of women in musical theater.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 10, 2024

3:00 pm: Ari Gold - Father Verses Sons: A Correspondence in Poems

Experience the profound connection between father and son as filmmaker Ari Gold presents a unique exploration of their relationship through poetry. In Father Versus Son, Gold corresponded with his beatnik poet father, Herb, before his passing, using verse to express love, longing, and reconciliation. Join us for a moving conversation with December Poetry Editor Scott Berzon, where poetry becomes a bridge for understanding and healing in the face of life's complexities.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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7:30 pm: In Remembrance of Kristallnacht

Karen Kirsten - Irena's Gift: An Epic World War II Memoir of Sisters, Secrets, And Survival

In a gripping narrative of survival and bravery, Karen Kirsten shares the incredible story of her mother, a Jewish child smuggled out of the Warsaw ghetto in a backpack during the harrowing days of Nazi-occupied Poland. Discover the hidden history of resilience and love as Kirsten reflects on the extraordinary events that shaped her family's legacy. This poignant account not only honors the past but also serves as a testament to the power of compassion and courage in the darkest of times.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 11, 2024

7:30 pm: Veterans' Day Special Event

Stuart E. Eizenstat - The Art of Diplomacy: How American Negotiators Reached Historic Agreements That Changed the World

Join former U.S. Ambassador Stuart E. Eizenstat for a captivating exploration of the art of diplomacy and the moments that changed the course of history. In The Art of Diplomacy, Eizenstat draws on his extensive experience to recount pivotal negotiations that shaped international relations. Through engaging stories and insightful analysis, he offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of diplomacy, highlighting the human connections that underpin world-changing agreements.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 12, 2024

1:00 pm: Ilan Evyatar

Target Tehran: How Mossad Is Using Sabotage, Cyberwarfare, Assassination - and Secret Diplomacy - to Stop a Nuclear Iran and Realign the New Middle East

Discover the groundbreaking revelations of Ilan Evyatar as he unveils the critical information gathered from documents stolen from Tehran. In Target Tehran, Evyatar exposes Iran's repeated violations of the 2015 JCPOA nuclear agreement, drawing on exclusive interviews with top intelligence sources from Israel and the United States, including the Mossad and the CIA. This compelling session promises to shed light on the intricate web of international diplomacy and security, providing essential context for current events.

Location: Chabad Jewish Center of St. Charles County

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7:30 pm: R. Derek Black

The Klansman's Son: My Journey from White Supremacy to Antiracism

Join R. Derek Black, the godson of KKK Grand Wizard David Duke and the son of the creator of Stormfront, for an eye-opening account of his journey from hate to understanding. In The Klansman's Son, Black shares their personal transformation after forming friendships with Jewish students in college that changed their perspective on race, identity, and acceptance. In conversation with Jordan Kadosh, Regional ADL Director for the Heartland Region, this powerful discussion will resonate with those interested in social justice, identity, and the path toward redemption.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 13, 2024

5:00 pm: Women's Memoir Panel

Sara Glass - Kissing Girls on Shabbat: A Memoir

Sara Glass recounts her heartfelt coming-of-age story within a controlling Hasidic community. This memoir reflects her courageous struggle to embrace her queer identity while navigating the complexities of family and faith. Glass's narrative is a testament to love, acceptance, and the fight for personal truth.

Rossi - The Punk Rock Queen of the Jews: A Memoir

Experience the wild and vibrant journey of Rossi, a former punk-rocker turned Chasidic rabbi's "cult buster." Her rebellious spirit and fierce determination shine through in this electrifying memoir, detailing her transformation from a life of defiance to one of empowerment and purpose within the Jewish community.

Sara Sherbill - There Was Night and There Was Morning: A Memoir of Trauma and Redemption

Sara Sherbill's searing memoir offers an unflinching look at her upbringing in an abusive rabbinical family. Through powerful storytelling, she navigates the complexities of love, trauma, and healing, ultimately finding a path to redemption. This panel promises to be a deeply moving exploration of the human experience.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 14, 2024

2:00 pm: Missouri's Own Panel

Michael Vines - Harry Gets Wise: A Novel

Jerold Kreisman - Necessary Lives

Daniel Simakoff Milligan - Homer Garland Phillips: His Life And Fight for a Hospital

Rabbi Yonason Goldson - Grappling With The Gray: An Ethical Handbook For Personal And Business Prosperity

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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7:30 pm: Sports Night

Noah Gittell - Baseball: The Movie

Step up to the plate with film critic Noah Gittel as he presents the first comprehensive overview of the baseball film genre. Through a captivating multimedia presentation, Gittel examines how baseball movies have evolved and influenced modern cinema, offering insights into the cultural significance of these films. Moderated by Post-Dispatch Sportswriter Ben Hochman, this event promises to be a home run for sports enthusiasts and film lovers alike!

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 15, 2024

11:00 am: Andrew J. Mellen - Unstuff Your Life! Kick the Clutter Habit and Completely Organize Your Life for Good

Meet the man hailed as "the most organized man in America," Andrew Mellen. In this engaging session, Mellen shares his innovative techniques for decluttering and organizing your life. With practical tips and a humorous approach, he inspires participants to take control of their spaces and create a more streamlined, stress-free environment, making this workshop a practical gem for all.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 16, 2024

7:00 pm: Joan Nathan

My Life in Recipes: Food, Family and Memories

Join best-selling and award-winning cookbook author and food journalist Joan Nathan for an evening of culinary storytelling. In her new memoir, Nathan uses cherished recipes to reflect on her rich family history, cultural heritage, and the joys of cooking. Discover how food weaves together the fabric of our lives and savor the flavors of nostalgia as Nathan shares heartwarming anecdotes and culinary wisdom, inviting attendees to explore their own connections to food and memory.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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November 17, 2024

3:30 pm: Jonathan Shmidt Chapman - Let There Be Play: Bringing the Bible to Life with Young Children

Spark the imaginations of young readers with Jonathan Schmidt Chapman's engaging approach to storytelling. This interactive session features child-friendly narratives and activities that breathe life into beloved Bible stories, encouraging creative play and exploration for families. Discover the joy of sharing these timeless tales with the next generation in a fun and meaningful way.

Location: The J, Mirowitz Performing Arts Center

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7:00 pm: Closing Night

Daniel Handler aka Lemony Snicket - And Then? And Then? What Else?

Join Daniel Handler, the enigmatic author behind the beloved Lemony Snicket series, for a captivating exploration of his literary journey. In this personal memoir and critical inquiry, Handler reflects on his creative process and the stories that shaped his career, blending humor and insight into a unique narrative. In conversation with Jessica Fischoff, Director of Literary Arts, this event promises to be both enlightening and entertaining, offering a unique look at the mind of one of today's most intriguing authors.

Location: SLCL - Clark Family Branch

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Date: November 2 - 17, 2024

Location: Various Venues In Saint Louis, MO

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