Prof. Rachel B. Gross explores how participating in the deli revival provides an alternative, under-appreciated way of practicing in American Jewish life. In her book, Beyond the Synagogue: Jewish Nostalgia as Religious Practice, the author traces American Jews' involvement in a broad array of ostensibly nonreligious activities. From conducting Jewish genealogical research, visiting Jewish historic sites, purchasing books and toys that teach Jewish nostalgia to children, to seeking out traditional Jewish foods, Gross argues that these practices illuminate how many American Jews are finding and making meaning within American Judaism today.
Rachel B. Gross is Associate Professor and John and Marcia Goldman Chair in American Jewish Studies at San Francisco State University. Her book, Beyond the Synagogue: Jewish Nostalgia as Religious Practice, is a 2021 National Jewish Book Award finalist and received an Honorable Mention for the 2021 Saul Viener Book Prize, given by the American Jewish Historical Society.
Prof. Gross will be signing her book following the program, which also includes a free pickle tasting!
Presented by SAJE (Seminars for Adult Jewish Enrichment). Sponsored by Center for Judaic Studies at Eastern Michigan University, Detroit Jewish Book Fair and JLearn.
Seminars for Adult Jewish Enrichment (SAJE) programming is endowed by a generous gift from Cis Maisel and supported by Carol & Ronald P. Fogel, Sheri & David Jaffa, and Elaine & Michael Serling through The J’s Pillar of Light Program. SAJE inspires meaningful connections and important conversations.
