On… The Book
Last summer, I furiously compiled this anthology, ON BEING JEWISH NOW. I was a woman possessed, putting everything else aside to work with 75 amazing authors and my publishing house to bring it to market by October 1.
I barely went outside, hunkered down instead at my laptop, head down, fingers flying.
Then, all year, I spoke to communities with my contributors and tried to help this little paperback reach readers.
The goal, admittedly, was lofty: minimizing antisemitism by elevating empathy. Sharing intimate stories so that others could relate and feel less alone. Showing those who weren’t Jewish what it was like and that emotions, themselves were common denominators.
A year later, recovering from the expected burnout of a whirlwind and finally in a calm moment, I can reflect. Did it “work?” Was it “worth it?”
On many levels, yes. I became part of an amazing community of authors. Tens of thousands of people read it. We were able to donate significantly to Artists Against Antisemitism.
But did it make a dent in combatting antisemitism? Can anything? One book making a difference in something so entrenched? What hubris! Laughable!
And yet, I know it has brought some in my community a bit closer together, a tiny nudge.
Last weekend I spied a few copies in a nearby Barnes & Noble. Exciting, always! I’m so grateful to all the bookstores that sell it when many have banned it on sight. The collection continues to sell steadily. Event requests come in regularly. So it did its job as a book.
I’m really glad I did it, although the hatred, ridicule, slurs, insults, cancellations, and betrayals continue to knock the wind out of me, practically daily.
My support of my fellow Jews, including, obviously, Israelis, and my desire for us to live a peaceful existence, one in which we aren’t subjected to, say, another slaughter like the Holocaust or 10/7, seems to have become oddly controversial — even among some other Jews. It’s mind-boggling to me.
My hope is simply for us to survive and thrive. To live without fear. To do our thing — including adding to the creative, scientific, educational and literary achievements of the world. To be safe.
Alas.
(Posted on zibbyowens)
It hurts my heart to read about the almost daily hatred, ridicule, slurs, insults, cancellations, and betrayals you face simply for naming Jewish experiences and creating visibility in this moment. I think we share a similar vision for a future of peace and ease. For all. But somehow it has become rude and thoughtless to even suggest we Jews are suffering anything, or should be included in how that vision comes to be.
A recent video post on Substack of a conversation I had about my novel WHITE with another Jewish writer, received the most vile, violent, threatening antisemitic responses. What is much more disappointing to me than the expected white supremacist hateful spew, is the near silence from my progressive queer community to my own post describing the attack. It is being shared and read. But by other Jews and a couple of allies. I received a few private emails to tell me how great and important the piece was, but they didn't like or share it on social media.
It's a painful time and all we can do is keep writing and speaking about it.
I deeply appreciate your willingness to be bold.
Poignant. And even though some efforts may have fallen on deaf ears, there’s a chronological history with heartfelt personal stories shared. The book offers an opened eyed view into a minority population.
It might not convince, readjust opinions or even reach the masses however it highlights sensitive topics on religious faith and resilience and community, where education is most valuable but also teetering on its own.
In response to your question, yes the extraordinary amount of time and effort you spent was warranted and brilliant. Congratulations on exposing yourself and for the collaboration. Since many industries, like publishing, have lopsided views on a variety of controversial subjects like Israel’s right to exist, at least these are real stories from real people.
Thank you for writing as I too was recently asked to be on a local network for my new book on radiance “The Radiant Woman Shines” and then sensed something went wrong. I had added my website on the bottom of my email reply to 4 people Then I heard crickets for the schedule. I had just written a concluded blog on Antisemitism. Jew hatred as the term has been since updated is despicable. I’m sad for your repercussions yet happy you set all projects aside. Many Jewish people as well as non Jews will gain informed understanding from the exposure. So yes, “On Being Jewish Now” was a viable project. I sense many others are and will continue to contribute towards the much needed improvements on these times. May we use our voices to help keep the dialogue and conversations going no matter how convoluted. It’ll help to get a little piece of our hearts going out and to meet others with hopeful respect. It was and is a big moment in time and our voices, your voice is greatly appreciated and matters. Thanks Zibby to you and all of your colleagues and storytellers. I wouldn’t have been in your thread here if it wasn’t for your perseverance! Wishing you continued success.