Literary Arts

Discover the Power of Words with Weinstein JCC’s Arts + Ideas Subscription Series

At the Weinstein JCC, we believe in the transformative power of literature and the spoken word. Through our Arts + Ideas subscription series, we bring highly sought-after authors, celebrities, and influencers to our community, providing enriching experiences and stimulating conversations.

The Fife-Davis Family Annual Jewish Book Fair

The Fife-Davis Family Annual Jewish Book Fair has been a cherished tradition for over 35 years. This incredible event celebrates Jewish literature and authors, fostering discussions on Jewish history, philosophy, literature, and poetry. It’s an opportunity to explore the vibrant world of Jewish literature and expand your literary horizons. To learn more about our Fife-Davis Family Annual Jewish Book Fair click the button below.

The Adolf-Adams JCC Forum: 20+ Years of Tradition

Another long-standing tradition is the Adolf-Adams JCC Forum, which has captivated audiences for over 20 years. Renowned personalities such as Janet Reno, Kirk Douglas, Richard Dreyfuss, Dr. Ruth, and Carl Bernstein have graced our stage, offering captivating presentations that engage, enlighten, and impress. As an Arts + Ideas subscriber, you have the exclusive benefit of securing your attendance at this highly popular event before it sells out. Join us this year for another fascinating presentation that will leave you inspired and informed.

By becoming an Arts + Ideas subscriber, you gain access to a wealth of literary and intellectual experiences throughout the year. You’ll receive priority seating, discounted tickets, and the satisfaction of supporting our commitment to bringing exceptional cultural programs to the community.

Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming Arts + Ideas events and subscription details. Be part of a community that embraces the power of words and celebrates the diversity of thought and ideas.

For more information or to subscribe, visit our subscriber page or contact Leslie McGuigan at [email protected].

Join us on this literary journey of exploration, knowledge, and inspiration.

Ketubh Renissance

Octoer 16 - December 12

Opening Reception: October 16

at 7:00 PM

Originally created 2,500 years ago as a unilateral marriage contract stating what a groom would provide for his bride, the ketubah evolved from the tenth century onward into a richly decorated expression of love and commitment. In connection with the book, Ketubah Renaissance: The Artful Modern Revival of the Jewish Marriage Contract by Michael Shapiro, founder of Ketubah.com, the world’s leading Ketubah publisher, this exhibit illuminates the contemporary revival of the marriage contract and displays the beautiful and innovative ketubot created by local artisans. Books will be available for purchase.

Fife-Davis Family Annual Jewish Book Fair

November 3 - November 24

In honor of National Jewish Book Month this November, we’ve curated an exceptional gathering of talented authors, all set to share their captivating stories with our vibrant community from November 3 to November 24, 2025.

Every Monday in November, as hosted by the 5400 Club, there will be an author presentation and book talk as part of the Fife-Davis Family Annual Jewish Book Fair. Authors may be virtual or in-person. Specific authors to be announced.

Rivonia's Children by Glenn Frankell

Monday, November 3

12:30 PM

Rivonia’s Children, a finalist for the Alan Paton Prize, South Africa’s highest honor for nonfiction, recounts the little known story of three Jewish families and their remarkable struggle alongside Nelson Mandela against Aparteid. Imprisoned, exiled and in some cases, murdered, these activists paid a terrible price for their courage, but their sacrifices helped pave the way for a multi-racial democracy.

Carole King: She Made the Earth Move!
by Jane Eisner

Saturday, November 8

7:30 PM

With live musical performance by Susan Greenbaum

Carole King’s extraordinary career has defined American popular music for more than half a century. She shaped the soundtrack of 1960’s teen culture, was a leading figure in the singer-songwriter movement of the 1970’s and yet, struggled to reconcile her fame with her roles as a wife and mother….

Fear No Pharaoh by Richard Kreitner

Monday, November 10

12:30 PM

In-Person event with Virtual Speaker.

Since ancient times, the Jewish people have recalled the story of Exodus and reflected on the implications of having been slaves. Did the tradition teach that Jews should speak out against slavery and oppression everywhere or act cautiously to protect themselves in a hostile world?

Fingerprintz by Lisa Roday

Tuesday, November 11

11:00 AM

In this stirring memoir, local Richmond author and Jewish community member, Lisa Printz Roday, begins her narrative with the sudden death of her forty-seven-year-old father. 

Rather than crush the twenty-one-year-old Printz Roday, it is the pivotal moment that sustains her in each new crisis she faces, including two harrowing preterm births. With remarkable candor, a little dry humor, and plenty of heart, Printz Roday explores how the experiences that shake us to our core can make us stronger than we could ever imagine.

 

 

Beejhy Barhany ~ Gursha
Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitches, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond

Sunday, November 16

4:00 - 6:00 PM

Born in Ethiopia, raised in Israel, and currently living in New York City, Beejhy Barhany is the owner of Tsion Café, a renowned Ethiopian-Israeli restaurant in Harlem. She is the author of Gursha: Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, a cookbook celebrating the timeless recipes and rich history of Ethiopian Jewry. 

Beejhy will offer a cooking demo and discussion about Beta Israel traditions and experiences, including the upcoming holiday of Sigd, while we enjoy delicious samples from her cookbook, Gursha, prepared by the chefs and owners of local Richmond restaurant, JewFro. Kosher dietary laws observed. 

The Joy of Connections
by Dr. Ruth K. Westheimer with Allison Gilbert and Pierre Lehu

Monday, November 17

12:30 PM

In-Person event with Virtual Speaker Co-author Pierre Lehu

Surgeon General Vivek Murthy sounded the alarm that loneliness “represents an urgent public health concern”—exacerbated by social media overuse, the residual effects of the pandemic, and the lack of meaningful relationships. In The Joy of Connections

Heart of A Stranger by Angela Buchdahl
Rabbi Angla Buchdahl in conversation with Abigail Pogrebin

Tuesday, November 18

1:00 PM

Virtual Via Zoom

From the first Asian-American to be ordained as a rabbi, a stirring account of one woman’s journey from feeling like an outsider to becoming one of the most admired religious leaders in the world. Rabbi Angela Buchdahl serves as the Senior Rabbi of Central Synagogue in New York City, the first woman to lead this flagship congregation. 

Lewis B. Mayer & Irving Thalberg: The Whole Equation
by Kenneth Turan

Monday, November 24

12:30 PM

In-Person event with Virtual Speaker.

Louis B. Mayer & Irving Thalberg: The Whole Equation is a history of the duo behind MGM Film. The nonfiction book by Kenneth Turan, a regular critic for the Los Angeles Times and NPR, follows the unlikely trajectory that led both men to the movies.

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