Jewish Book Festival: Twice by Mitch Albom
2025-11-04 19:30 (America/Chicago) | Oshman Gymnasium @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
When a grieving man receives a mysterious phone call from his departed wife, he’s pulled into a haunting journey where love defies time, and second chances may come at a price. What if the ones you’ve lost weren’t truly gone? In this deeply emotional and thought-provoking novel, Mitch Albom—bestselling author of Tuesdays with Morrie and The Five People You Meet in Heaven—explores the power of memory, faith and the eternal bonds we share. A master storyteller, Albom once again touches the heart with grace and wonder.

2025 Book Festival Community Read
2025-11-05 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Counting Backwards
By Jacqueline Friedland
Wednesday, November 5 | 7:30 PM
In conversation with Barbara Hachenburg Brounes, mediator specializing in civil cases and former trial attorney
Told in two alternating narratives bound by a shocking parallel of issues such as reproductive rights and society’s expectations of women, Counting Backwards is a compelling reminder that progress is rarely a straight line and always hard-won. Jessa Gidney’s quest for justice draws her into the heart of an abhorrent conspiracy. As she uncovers her personal ties to a heartbreaking past, her life takes a dramatic turn, in this emotionally riveting novel inspired by true events. “Erin Brockovich for our times.” (Jill Santopolo, New York Times bestselling author)
Books can be purchased online and picked up at the J’s front desk.

Jewish Book Festival: As a Jew by Sarah Hurwitz
2025-11-06 19:30 | Oshman Gymnasium @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
In this powerful and personal exploration, former White House speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz—author of the critically acclaimed Here All Along—reclaims Jewish identity by confronting centuries of antisemitic myths and cultural erasure. With wit, humility and deep insight, she delves into ancient traditions, spiritual wisdom and the modern search for belonging. In an era of rising antisemitism, Hurwitz offers a timely, defiant call to challenge stereotypes and embrace Jewish heritage without apology—a moving reflection for seekers, skeptics and believers alike.

Jewish Book Festival: A Teddy Bear for Emily by Nancy Churnin (Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience)
2025-11-07 10:00 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience
Endowed in loving memory of Oliver Lapin by his family
Emily is bewildered when her mother starts to sew a stuffed bear—her mother has never made a bear before! Far away, President Theodore Roosevelt faces a surprising bear-related moment of his own! When their two stories unexpectedly come together, something wonderful is born: a cuddly new toy that brings comfort and joy to kids everywhere. Based on a true tale, Churnin brings vibrant storytelling and a journalist’s curiosity into this charming story that celebrates creativity, love, and the surprising ways everyday people—and even presidents—can help make history huggable.
Community Partners: Alexander Jewish Family Service

Jewish Book Festival: Shira the Singing Puppy by Ilana Wieder (Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience)
2025-11-07 11:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience
Endowed in loving memory of Oliver Lapin by his family
Shira is no ordinary puppy—she was born with a song in her heart and a voice that can light up the world. From her very first howl, she dreams of sharing her music with others, even when some don’t believe in her unique gift. This heartwarming tale celebrates the power of believing in yourself, following your dreams, and letting your true voice shine. The author brings warmth and whimsy to every page, drawing on her love for animals and storytelling to create truly enchanting children’s adventures.
Community Partner: Becker School

Tickets on sale now!

Jewish Book Festival: Shira the Singing Puppy by Ilana Wieder (Oliver Lapin Family Day Experience)
2025-11-08 16:00 | Samuels Pavilion

HC68 Chopped ft. Beejhy Barhany
2025-11-08 19:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond: A Cookbook
Challenge yourself to create unique dishes in a Chopped-style competition using ingredients inspired by Ethiopia and Israel. The competition will be judged by Beejhy Barhany author of the cookbook Gursha. Let’s get cooking!
Houston Connect 68 (HC68) is a fun, safe community program which offers an exciting mix of social opportunities designed for middle school students, open to the community, members and public.

Jewish Book Festival: Let's Call Her Barbie: A Novel by Renée Rosen
2025-11-08 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
In conversation with Courtney Zubowski Haas, Emmy Award-winning freelance journalist
In this dazzling blend of fact and fiction, Rosen unearths the untold story behind one of the world’s most iconic dolls and the visionary woman who brought her to life. Set against the glittering backdrop of 1950s America, the novel follows Ruth Handler as she defies expectations, battles sexism, and revolutionizes the toy industry. With razor-sharp ambition and unwavering belief, she creates a cultural phenomenon that would shape generations. Rosen, known for her vivid historical fiction, once again brings a forgotten trailblazer into brilliant focus.
Patron Sponsors: Debbie and Rick Kaplan; Susan Rosenbaum and Eric Schoen
Community Partners: Congregation Brith Shalom Sisterhood and Monday Morning Study Group

Tickets on sale now!

Jewish Book Festival: Gursha by Beejhy Barhany
2025-11-09 11:00 | Cramer-Jacobs Family Culinary Studio @ the J, 5601 S Braeswood Blvd, Houston, TX, 77096
Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond: A Cookbook
Food brings people together – a concept this Ethiopian-born and Israeli-raised chef strongly believes. Featuring more than 100 recipes, stories, and traditions, Gursha, which loosely translates to “mouthful” or “the act of feeding one another,” reflects Barhany’s deep desire to celebrate Jewish diversity and inclusion via food. The founding owner and executive chef of Tsion Cafe in New York will introduce readers to both the traditional, like Doro Wat, and the eclectic, such as Injera Fish Tacos. It’s a flavorful journey for the soul that foodies won’t want to miss!

Jewish Book Festival: FILM: Diane Warren: Relentless
2025-11-09 13:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Documentary | Directed by Bess Kargman | 2024 | USA | English | 91 minutes
Diane Warren: Relentless is an intimate and inspiring portrait of the legendary songwriter behind chart-topping hits for icons like Cher, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Celine Dione, Lady Gaga, Whitney Houston, Britney Spears, and Aerosmith. From humble beginnings to 15 Oscar nominations, Warren’s story is one of grit, talent and unshakable drive. Featuring behind-the-scenes footage, star-studded interviews, and the unforgettable songs that defined generations, this compelling documentary reveals what keeps one of music’s most prolific hitmakers pushing forward in a world that told her “no.”
Patron Sponsors: Barbara and Mark Paull; Vicky and Michael Richker
Community Partners: Houston Hillel; Texas Medical Center Orchestra

Tickets on sale now!

Jewish Book Festival: Melting Point by Rachel Cockerell
2025-11-09 16:00 | Congregation Or Ami, 3443 Wilcrest Dr, Houston, TX, 77042
In 1907, a ship packed with 10,000 Russian Jews set sail for Texas, led by the author’s great grandfather. These rebel Zionists were seeking security beyond Palestine, desperate to start a new life. In this innovative family memoir, Cockerell weaves together primary sources—letters, diary entries, interviews and articles—to bring long-silent voices to life in a deeply personal and fascinating exploration of a plan to create a Jewish state in Texas. The story’s ultimate question asks what it means to belong, and what can be salvaged from the past.

Jewish Book Festival: Melting Point by Rachel Cockerell
2025-11-09 19:00 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096

Jewish Book Festival: Exploring Global Jewish Cuisines: A Conversation with Beejhy Barhany & Margaret Boyle
2025-11-10 19:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
In conversation with Mark A. Goldberg, Associate Professor of History at the University of Houston
Beejhy Barhany
Gursha: Timeless Recipes for Modern Kitchens, from Ethiopia, Israel, Harlem, and Beyond: A Cookbook
Born in Ethiopia and raised in Israel before moving to New York, chef Barhany’s cookbook celebrates Jewish diversity. From traditional recipes like doro wot to her own unique creations such as injera fish tacos, Gursha will have you craving more!
Margaret Boyle
Sabor Judio: The Jewish Mexican Cookbook
Fusing two culinary traditions, Jewish and Mexican, Boyle’s lavishly illustrated cookbook demonstrates how cooking and eating can connect us across places and generations. One hundred deeply personal recipes reflect the author’s pure joy and zest for life.
Supported by the Rosita and Albert Gaon Sephardic Heritage Program Endowment Fund
Community Partner: Congregation Beth Yeshurun

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Jewish Book Festival: Six Days in Bombay by Alka Joshi
2025-11-11 12:00 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Book Lovers Lunch
When renowned painter Mira Novak dies mysteriously after a miscarriage in Bombay, her nurse Sona—entranced by Mira’s glamorous past—suddenly finds herself under suspicion. Left with four paintings and a cryptic note, Sona embarks on a journey across pre-war Europe to clear her name and uncover the truth. As she retraces Mira’s life, she begins to untangle the artist’s secrets and discovers her own sense of self. Inspired by the life of Amrita Sher-Gil, bestselling author Alka Joshi crafts a richly layered tale of identity, desire and the search for belonging.

Jewish Book Festival: Becoming Caitlin Clark by Howard Megdal
2025-11-12 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
Becoming Caitlin Clark: The Unknown Origin Story of a Modern Basketball Superstar
Howard Megdal takes readers behind the scenes to reveal the little-known origins of a modern basketball superstar. From her early passion and fierce determination to the challenges that shaped her rise, this compelling narrative captures the making of a game-changing athlete. Megdal, a seasoned journalist with deep ties to Jewish culture, has contributed to The New York Times, The Washington Post and FiveThirtyEight. His sharp storytelling brings this inspiring journey to life for sports fans everywhere.
Patron Sponsors: Susan and Sandy Baum
Community Partners: Hebrew Order of David – Lodge Galil & Lodge Tikvah; Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s Minette and Jerome Robinson Young Adult Division (YAD)

Tickets on sale now!

Jewish Book Festival: Raising Resilience by Tovah Klein
2025-11-13 19:30 | Evelyn Rubenstein JCC, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096, United States
Raising Resilience: How to Help Our Children Thrive in Times of Uncertainty
In conversation with Melissa Goldberg Mintz, author and clinical psychologist specializing in the treatment of trauma
Rooted in more than 30 years of experience, this compassionate guide offers invaluable insights for nurturing emotional resilience in children. Blending expert research, heartfelt wisdom, and timeless Jewish values, Klein provides practical tools to help caregivers support thriving children—no matter their circumstances. Focusing on both child development and caregiver well-being, the author encourages confidence, connection, and hope in navigating the everyday challenges of parenting. Thoughtful and empowering, this book is an essential resource for anyone seeking to raise strong, emotionally grounded children in today’s complex and fast-paced world.
Community Partners: Congregation Shma Koleinu; The Shlenker School

Tickets on sale now!

Jewish Book Festival: The Prosecutor by Jack Fairweather
2025-11-13 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
The Prosecutor: One Man’s Battle to Bring Nazis to Justice
In his well-researched, deeply fascinating book, this best-selling author draws on unpublished family papers, newly declassified German records, and exclusive interviews to bring the incredible true story of Fritz Bauer to life. A gay, Jewish judge from Stuttgart, Bauer survived the Nazis and was resolved to bring those who remained at large to justice. Fairweather immerses history lovers in the Cold War era of West Germany, where determination sets Bauer against a network of former Nazis and spies who wanted to silence him.
Patron Sponsors: Eve and Bobby Lapin
Supported by the Shirley and Bill Morgan Family Holocaust Memorial Fund
Community Partners: Consulate General of Israel to the Southwest; Holocaust Museum Houston; Keshet Houston

Tickets on sale now!

Jewish Book Festival: Raising Resilience by Tovah Klein
2025-11-14 09:00 | West Houston JCC, 1120 Dairy Ashford Road, Houston, TX, 77079, United States
Raising Resilience: How to Help Our Children Thrive in Times of Uncertainty
Rooted in more than 30 years of experience, this compassionate guide offers invaluable insights for nurturing emotional resilience in children. Blending expert research, heartfelt wisdom, and timeless Jewish values, Klein provides practical tools to help caregivers support thriving children—no matter their circumstances. Focusing on both child development and caregiver well-being, the author encourages confidence, connection, and hope in navigating the everyday challenges of parenting. Thoughtful and empowering, this book is an essential resource for anyone seeking to raise strong, emotionally grounded children in today’s complex and fast-paced world.

Tickets on sale now!

Jewish Book Festival: Lorne: The Man Who Invented Saturday Night Live by Susan Morrison
2025-11-15 19:30 | Kaplan Theatre @ the J, 5601 S. Braeswood, Houston, TX, 77096
In conversation with Khambrel Marshall, award-winning broadcaster, retired meteorologist and former host of “Houston Newsmakers”
Acclaimed journalist and longtime New Yorker editor Susan Morrison explores the fascinating, behind-the-scenes world of Lorne Michaels, the elusive force who built Saturday Night Live into a comedy empire. Drawing on revealing interviews with his friends, colleagues and collaborators, the book uncovers how Michaels shaped generations of comedians while carefully crafting his own mystique. With rare insight into the power dynamics, creative chaos and cultural impact of SNL, this is the definitive portrait of a man who changed television—and comedy—forever.
Patron Sponsors: Debbie and Stuart Diamond; Barbara Winthrop and Jay Steinfeld

Tickets on sale now!

Jewish Book Festival: TEEN NIGHT: Corey Rosen
2025-11-19 19:00 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
A Story for Everything: Mastering Diverse Storytelling for Any Occasion
A veteran storyteller and longtime host of The Moth in San Francisco, Rosen offers a vibrant collection of real and imagined tales that reveal the transformative power of storytelling. Readers will discover how to find meaning in everyday moments, connect more deeply with others, and craft stories that resonate. Blending humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom, the author illustrates how storytelling isn’t just entertainment—it’s a tool for empathy, growth, and change. This inspiring book empowers readers to find and share the stories only they can tell.
Community Partners:
The Jewish Federation of Greater Houston’s Kehillah High, J Teens, BBYO and Helfman Religious School of Congregation Emanu El

Jewish Book Festival: Arts In The Afternoon: Judith Viorst
2026-05-04 13:00 | Merfish Teen Center, 9000 S. Rice, Houston, TX, 77096
Making the Best of What’s Left
In this warm, witty reflection on aging, Judith Viorst—beloved author of Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day—offers honest, humorous insights into life’s later years. Speaking directly to older adults and their families, she blends Jewish wisdom, resilience, and poignant storytelling to explore the joys and sorrows of growing older. Both comforting and relatable, this compassionate work invites laughter, reflection, and gratitude, making it a meaningful companion for anyone navigating the complexities of aging.
