The Jewish Community Center of the North Shore (JCCNS) is proud to announce the return of its highly anticipated Jewish Book Month (JBM) Speaker Series, a month-long celebration of Jewish literature and culture featuring engaging author talks, community events, and meaningful conversations.
Now in its 31st year, the series will run from Oct. 16 through Nov. 21, showcasing a diverse lineup of newly released books by Jewish authors or those exploring Jewish themes. All events are open to the public and are designed to bring the community together to learn, connect, and celebrate powerful storytelling.
“Jewish Book Month is one of our most cherished traditions and something that we look forward to each fall,” said Margie Detkin, JBM Chairperson. “This year’s lineup highlights voices that are insightful, inspiring, and incredibly timely. I invite you to join us – and bring friends – to hear from these incredible authors and speakers. You won’t be disappointed!”
2025 JBM Featured Events:
Carole King: She Made the Earth Move by Jane Eisner (in conversation with journalist Shelley Sackett)
Thursday, Oct. 16 @ 7 p.m. | JCCNS | $36
Join acclaimed journalist Jane Eisner for a captivating exploration of Carole King’s life — from her Jewish roots in Brooklyn to her rise as a music icon and political activist. Includes ice cream sundae reception with Treadwell’s Ice Cream and live music.
Community partner: Hadassah North Shore Chapter
Night Owls by A.R. Vishny (in conversation with school librarian Talya Sokoll)
Thursday, Oct. 23 @ 7 p.m. | JCCNS | $20 / Free for students
A thrilling YA debut blending folklore, romance, and mystery.
Community Partner: Marblehead High School.
The Whisper Sister by Jennifer S. Brown (in conversation with Cat Mazur-Jefferies)
Tuesday, Oct. 28 @ 7 p.m. | Tedesco Country Club | $45
Set in Prohibition-era NYC, this riveting novel explores identity, family, and the cost of the American dream. Includes dessert and a drink ticket.
Matisse at War by Christopher C. Gorham
Sunday, Nov. 2 @ 11 a.m. | JCCNS | $36
A groundbreaking look at artist Henri Matisse’s resistance during WWII. Event includes brunch catered by Maria’s Café.
Community Partners: Marblehead Arts Association, Swampscott Arts Association, Salem Art Association, Cape Ann COSMOS.
American Intifada: Israel, the Gaza War and the New Antisemitism by Uri Kaufman
Wednesday, Nov. 12 @ 7 p.m. | JCCNS | $20
Historian Uri Kaufman offers a sharp, provocative analysis of rising antisemitism and media narratives following Oct. 7. A timely and urgent discussion.
When We Flew Away by Alice Hoffman (in conversation with Talya Sokoll)
Tuesday, Nov. 18 @ 7 p.m. | JCCNS | $36 / Free for students
The beloved author returns with a powerful new novel about Anne Frank’s early life, published in cooperation with the Anne Frank House.
Community Partners: Lappin Foundation, Abbott & Swampscott Libraries, COAs, Seaglass Village, Clifton Lutheran Church, Marblehead Veterans Middle School, Salem State Center for Holocaust and Genocide Studies.
Charley and Seymour’s Hanukkah Miracle by Melody Howard Ritt
Friday, Nov. 21 @ 4:30 p.m. | JCCNS | FREE
A heartwarming children’s story about friendship and the true meaning of Hanukkah. Event includes pizza dinner and family-friendly Shabbat celebration.
About Jewish Book Month at JCCNS: The Jewish Book Month Speaker Series is a signature program of the JCCNS, dedicated to promoting Jewish learning, culture, and connection through literature. The series features authors from across the literary spectrum — fiction and nonfiction, debut voices and bestsellers — and welcomes everyone to be part of the conversation.
Tickets & More Info:
Tickets and event details are available at:
jccns.org/jewish-book-month.
Join this fall and discover stories that inspire, challenge, and unite.
