‘Behind the Book’ series brings authors to community

On Sunday, Jan. 26, the Jewish Alliance of Greater Rhode Island will kick-off its “Behind the Book” visiting author series, which was produced with the Jewish Book Council and a number of local partners. The series welcomes seven Jewish authors to discuss their books, which span a broad range of subjects. Unless otherwise noted, all events will be at the Dwares Jewish Community Center, 401 Elmgrove Ave., Providence.

Sunday, Jan. 26, 4-5:30 p.m.: “Goodnight Bubbala,” with Sheryl Haft

Haft will read from her book at a pajama party for young children; attendees should bring a favorite stuffed animal or blanket to snuggle with!

Admission: $3/person, $10/family

Wednesday, Jan. 29, 7 p.m.: “Witness: Lessons from Elie Wiesel’s Classroom,” with Ariel Burger

Burger, a student of Wiesel, offers insights into Wiesel’s own beliefs and teachings.

No cost to attend; this event will be held at the University of RI, Hope Room in the Higgins, 45 Upper College Road, Kingston.

Sunday, Feb. 2, 11 a.m.: “The 30-Day Money Cleanse,” with Ashley Feinstein Gerstley

Gerstley will work with attendees to help them take control of their finances and improve financial wellbeing.

Admission: $15 (includes book & refreshments)

Thursday, Feb. 6, 12:45 p.m. & 7 p.m.: “From Longing to Belonging: A Practical Guide to Including People with Disabilities and Mental Health Conditions in Your Faith Community,” with Shelly Christensen

There will be two events. The first is a workshop for people working in faith communities; the second is a forum for discussion on inclusivity.

No cost to attend.

Wednesday, Feb. 26, 7 p.m.: “A Rainbow Thread: An Anthology of Queer Jewish Texts from the First Century to 1969,” with Noam Sienna

Sienna will read selected stories from his anthology of queer Jewish texts.

No cost to attend.

Monday, May 4, 7 p.m.: “The Flight Portfolio,” with Julie Orringer

Orringer will talk about Varian Fry, whose work saved the lives of thousands of Jewish artists and others fleeing the Holocaust.

Admission: a gift to the Jewish Alliance Annual Campaign

Wednesday, May 13, 7 p.m.: “Palestine Posts: An Eye-witness Account of the Birth of Israel,” with Daniel Chertoff

Chertoff’s presentation, based on his father’s letters from Palestine, revisits select historical events from Israel’s War of Independence.

No cost to attend.