Hope into Practice: Jewish women choosing justice despite our fears

by Penny Rosenwasser

“Thank you” is what I thought I was supposed to say when told I didn’t “look Jewish.” What will make it irresistible for Jewish women to free ourselves of internalized anti-Semitism? This book responds with a rare blend of healing stories, fascinating history, and a fair-minded perspective on Israel-Palestine—asking us to love ourselves enough to face our fears without acting on them. Anchored in Jewish ethical tradition and community, it’s an activist’s call to repair the world. Includes action-oriented Reader’s Guide, for groups and individuals.

Genres: Jewish, Religion, Judaism

417 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2013

Reviews

[Zhelana · Rating 1 out of 5]

Despite how often I tell people not to bother reading books they don't think are good, every once in a while, I forget to stop reading a book that I don't think is good. I'm not sure why it happens, but every once in a while I persist in a book despite all common sense. That's what happened with this book. I think this time it's because the premise sounded promising - the intersection between white supremacism and judaism is interesting in a weird historical time where most jews are considered white and yet antisemitism is still everywhere. Unfortunately, this book was far too far to the left, off into 'everything is race' territory and also seemed to just be an ongoing conversation between her and her friends rather than a serious examination of the issues at play.

[Bruce Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Penny Rosenwasser has dedicated her life to peace for Palestine and Israel. I'm so impressed with her activism; her process for purging the effects of bigotry is both spiritual and pragmatic. If there were Jewish saints, and Gentiles were allowed to elect them, she would get my vote. The facts of the book are well-documented and copiously end-noted. The book also contains workshop suggestions for the use of each chapter.

[Binya Koatz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good! Some great first reading on this topic, and a wide overview of a lot of relevant material. Font of knowledge esp. on jewish resistance to zionism. Penny is a great movement leader and proud to have her as a queer jewish mentor!