The devastating attack on the Jewish community at Bondi beach last Sunday will leave more than an indelible stain on their memory. Our Jewish friends again will experience the festering hatred that for centuries, erupts, creating persistent fear and trauma.   For many of us, we cannot conceive the depths of hatred that motivate such premeditated carnage as we witnessed at Bondi.   Our response is critical. It is not a time for violent retribution. The need is for calm. Justic

I can't recommend Tahlia Newland's Novel Writing Mastery enough—especially for those who, like me, have already benefited from her generous wisdom and guidance in their own writing process. Having experienced Tahlia's supportive, yet rigorously professional, approach firsthand, this book felt less like a general writing guide and more like having her beside me in my study. What truly sets Novel Writing Mastery apart is that it’s written by someone who doesn’t just teach writi

As some world leaders rattle their sabres for war, be aware of the many groups who are committed to building a just peace through non-violence. The Rossing Centre, based in Jerusalem is one that takes centre stage for me. Sami Awad and Michael Beer, co-founders of Non Violence International also are high on my list. Their post today is worth sharing. "As we honour  Human Rights Day , we recall  Dr. King's statement  that  humanity MUST choose between nonviolence   or nonexist

Michael Pembroke's Silk Silver Opium is a comprehensive historical narrative that examines the centuries-long trade relationship between Imperial China and the West, arguing that this history of commercial interaction, conflict, and eventual humiliation is the essential foundation for understanding China's modern geopolitical stance and its relationship with the world today. The book traces the transformation of this relationship through three distinct phases. The early phase

Simon Cleary's invitation to join his twenty-seven day walk on the banks of the Brisbane River rewards the reader with an invigorating, inspirational adventure - from its source to the sea. Cleary brings to life - his River, its brutality and beauty.   His careful observance of plants and pebbles, flora and fauna, the bends and eddies of the river, connected to wider stories of waterways and human history, viewed through a global lens, instils a holistic and vibrant dimension

Peter Beinart is well credentialed to write on Israeli - Palestinian issues. In the early 2000s he was regarded as one of America's prominent advocates for the State of Israel. He proudly embraced his Jewish faith and developed an elite profile in his career as a journalist leading to his current position as Professor of Journalism and Political Science at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism, City University of New York.   His latest book, 'Being Jewish after the

The opening scene is set in the small village of Starhorodivka in the grey zone between Ukrainians and "separatists". The complexities of...

Colum McCann's 'Twist' is a tale of failed novelist Anthony Fennell who accepts an assignment in the hope it may restore meaning and...

Dara Horn's collection of essays is a searing and incisive exploration of the ways contemporary society fixates and formulates Jewish...

In a previous post, I mistakenly identified a Kayo ad "Get On Board" as promoting gambling. It advertises their sports streaming service,...