Ask the Author: Steven A. Schwarzman
Answered Questions (3)
Steven A. Schwarzman
Hi, Judygr8.
If you want a massively comprehensive, scholarly history of the Jews, try Ben-Sasson's History of the Jews (over 1000 pages). I used this as a student. For something newer and much shorter, I've heard recommendations for Scheindlin's A Short History of the Jewish People. Some people like Chaim Potok's Wanderings, but I read it too many years ago to remember how good it was.
If you want a massively comprehensive, scholarly history of the Jews, try Ben-Sasson's History of the Jews (over 1000 pages). I used this as a student. For something newer and much shorter, I've heard recommendations for Scheindlin's A Short History of the Jewish People. Some people like Chaim Potok's Wanderings, but I read it too many years ago to remember how good it was.
Steven A. Schwarzman
During the years when I was a technical writer, I learned to write quickly. It's always easier to edit something once it's written, so if writer's block comes from wondering how to make perfection out of a blank screen, that's never really bothered me. I just start writing, and later edit out even large chunks, but don't get stuck at the starting gate.
Steven A. Schwarzman
As I wrote in the introduction, I needed to stall one Shabbat morning until we had a minyan. So I asked, rather weakly, if people had a favorite prayer. And I was astounded at how everyone present not only did, but articulated beautifully just what that prayer did for them. I realized that more people have deep Jewish prayer experiences (yes, in the synagogue!) than I had even remotely imagined. And I began to understand that these deep experiences and reflections could inspire others, too.
About Goodreads Q&A
Ask and answer questions about books!
You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.
See Featured Authors Answering Questions
Learn more