The Jewish Book Council announced the winners of the 2019 National Jewish Book Awards on Wednesday. U.C. Berkeley professor Robert Alter received a Lifetime Achievement Award for his decades-long project “The Hebrew Bible: A Translation with Commentary.” Alter’s once-in-a-generation translation of the entire Hebrew Bible into English began in 1997 with the publication of his…
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Books
‘Prozac Nation’ author Elizabeth Wurtzel dies of breast cancer at age 52
Author Elizabeth Wurtzel, best known for her memoir “Prozac Nation,” died at age 52 after a five-year fight with breast cancer. Wurtzel’s blockbuster…
Off the Shelf
The best Hanukkah books for all ages, tots to young adults
The books section is supported by a generous donation from Anne Germanacos As we approach Hanukkah, those of us with kids in our lives may be looking for…
Art & About
Two luminous works of art on love and faith to see this holiday season
In a season of holiday events, I want to suggest two works of art that are timeless: a profoundly playful book about love, and a compelling film about…
TV
Michael Chabon adapting ‘Kavalier and Clay’ for Showtime
Kavalier and Clay are coming to Showtime. Berkeley resident Michael Chabon’s Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay”…
Books
The story of Berkeley roundabout’s bear cubs becomes Hanukkah children’s book
When you drive through Marin Circle in Berkeley, your eyes are probably fixed on the traffic that streams through the busy roundabout. But if you look…
Books
Marin man’s memoir recounts love for his late wife and their adventures
The books section is supported by a generous donation from Anne Germanacos Barry Hoffner wasn’t trying to write a book. He had just dropped off his…
Books
Newly uncovered first American Jewish novel reveals an early feminist voice
More than a century after her death, Cora Wilburn is having her moment. With the rediscovery and recent publication of her novel “Cosella Wayne: Or, Will…
Off the Shelf
Two Israeli novelists explore truth and integrity
The books section is supported by a generous donation from Anne Germanacos With all the handwringing about the declining relationship of American Jews to…