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Books

LIZA’S BOOK CORNER: ‘Friendship and Community’

LIZA’S BOOK CORNER: ‘Friendship and Community’

Posted on: May 26th, 2026 | 10 Sivan 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

Book reviews for kids from Liza Wiemer, longtime local Jewish educator “A Place to Pray: A Tale of Friendship and Community Inspired by a True Story,” by Doreen Klein Robinson, illustrated by Yuke Li, published by Worthy Kids. Inspired by the actions of Rabbi Joshua Stanton of East End Temple in New York, this touching and […]

Pesach books for kids

Posted on: March 27th, 2026 | 9 Nisan 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

“The Miracle of Matzah Pizza: A Bible Tale by Ann Diament Koffsy,” published by Intergalactic Afikoman  Pure delight (and deliciousness)! Koffsy’s humor shines through in this tall tale about how matzah pizza started, taking children through the desert with Moses and Miriam. Young and old will appreciate this beautifully illustrated and joyous Passover story. Back matter includes information on the holiday […]

Five Jewish Books with Wisconsin ties

Posted on: March 24th, 2026 | 6 Nisan 5786 by Rob Golub

We love cheering on Jewish writers, especially those with Wisconsin roots.   The following titles, highlighted by the Jewish Book Council, showcase the range and vitality of Jewish storytelling and scholarship. From middle-grade fiction to cultural history and contemporary novels, these books connect our local community to the broader Jewish literary world.  Links to the Jewish Book Council […]

Nationwide, Jewish authors face censorship

Posted on: March 24th, 2026 | 6 Nisan 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

When Susan Blumberg-Kason was researching a book about Golda Meir’s Milwaukee childhood, her literary agent abruptly cut ties. The explanation was brief and echoed what other Jewish writers were hearing: “We can no longer champion your career,” Blumberg-Kason told the Jewish Telegraphic Agency.   Since the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel and the war […]

Three new Purim books from PJ Library

Three new Purim books from PJ Library

Posted on: March 10th, 2026 | 21 Adar 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

“Purim Possibilities,” by Barbara Kimmel, illustrated by Irina Avgustinovich  This fun board book gives children the opportunity to imagine what costume they want to wear for Purim. It introduces aspects of the holiday such as reading the Megillah and making hamantaschen. Reusable decals with various outfits are included.   “Purim Baskets,” by Nancy Churnin, illustrated by Amy Schimler-Safford  Giving mishloach manot – baskets […]

‘A Story of Two Great-Grandmothers’

‘A Story of Two Great-Grandmothers’

Posted on: February 11th, 2026 | 24 Shevat 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

“Maya’s Journey: A Story of Two Great-Grandmothers” by Marcella White Campbell, illustrated by Olivia Smith, published by Kalaniot Books  Based on her family’s true experience, this exquisite picture book explores identity and respect for family history. When Maya’s teacher gives an assignment requiring each student to write their personal stories, Maya is stuck. But then her parents share how her great-grandmothers were […]

Study Yiddish in English, for free 

Study Yiddish in English, for free 

Posted on: February 4th, 2026 | 17 Shevat 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

A public library is hosting a series of free community events, with the JCC, to discuss Yiddish literature that has been translated into English.  Mequon-Thiensville’s Frank L. Weyenberg Library and the Harry & Rose Samson Family Jewish Community Center are hosting several discussions, with training from the Yiddish Book Center, a national nonprofit.   The programming – under the umbrella theme of “Between Two Worlds: Exploring Jewish […]

Arin Kornblet published a book

Arin Kornblet published a book

Posted on: January 22nd, 2026 | 4 Shevat 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

In August, Arin Kornblet, Glendale resident and baker at the local Friendship Circle Cafe and Bakery, became a published writer with the release of his book, “How to Get and Keep a Job,” a handbook for those looking for a job, inspired by Kornblet’s decades of experience as a person with disabilities in the workplace. […]

Recommendations from Liza Wiemer for young readers

Recommendations from Liza Wiemer for young readers

Posted on: January 22nd, 2026 | 4 Shevat 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

“The Color of Sound” by Emily Barth Isler, published by Carolrhoda Books  This fabulous middle-grade novel is about a 12-year-old girl with synesthesia. She’s a musical prodigy whose parents push her to become one of the best violinists. But Rosie rebels, and many valuable lessons are learned as the family navigates a summer at Rosie’s grandparents’ home. This book has vivid […]

Milwaukee native authored noted book — ‘Born in Flames’ explores how widespread arson in the 1970s and 1980s reshaped urban landscapes

Milwaukee native authored noted book — ‘Born in Flames’ explores how widespread arson in the 1970s and 1980s reshaped urban landscapes

Posted on: December 31st, 2025 | 11 Tevet 5786 by Special to the Chronicle

For author and historian Bench Ansfield, returning to Milwaukee to launch their first book was more than just a professional milestone; it was also a homecoming. On Sept. 18, Ansfield read at Boswell Books — the same bookstore they frequented growing up in Fox Point — surrounded by former teachers, friends, and classmates. “It was […]