“Stories of Exile” Reading Group Discussion, Session 1

The New Rochelle Public Library is one of 29 libraries across the country selected to participate in The Yiddish Book Center’s “Stories of Exile” Reading Groups for Public Libraries program.

The program uses excerpts from translated Yiddish works, and other books related to the experience of the community, to bring people together for healthy discussions on social issues such as immigration, displacement, and economic and political upheaval, and individual experiences of migration, identity and belonging. Participants will discuss the challenges of displacement, migration and diaspora through the lens of their personal histories.

The reading list for this session will include excerpts from the following:  

In the Land of the Postscript: Short Stories by Chava Rosenfarb, translated by Goldie Morgentaler; On the Landing: Stories by Yenta Mash, translated by Ellen Cassedy; African Town by Charles Waters and Irene Latham; Homelands: Four Friends, Two Countries, and the Fate of the Great Mexican-American Migration by Alfredo Corchado.

An additional discussion, based on different readings and focus will take place on Tuesday, December 5. Participants may join one or both discussions. 

Registration is requested. Register online or call (914) 813-3706.

This program will be facilitated by Haina Just-Michael, a former president and member of the New Rochelle Public Library Board of Trustees. Ms. Just-Michael received comprehensive training in preparation for her role as facilitator by working with experts, scholars, and authors at the Yiddish Book Center.