Books

We Need to Talk About Antisemitism

A millennial rabbi explores why we’re reluctant to discuss antisemitism —and empowers us to fight against it

Antisemitism is on the rise in America, in cities and rural areas, in red states and blue states, hiding behind meme accounts or marching openly in the streets​. Rabbi Diana Fersko is used to having difficult conversations with members of her congregation about the issues they face—from the threat of violence to microaggressions and identity denial. In We Need to Talk About Antisemitism, she gives all of us the tools we need to understand the state of antisemitism today.

Calling on Jews and non-Jews alike, she teaches us how to speak up against hate—and counter it with a message of solidarity and hope. This is a timely read for anyone passionate about fighting for a better tomorrow.

Release date: August 29, 2023.  Now available for purchase.

Praise for the Book

An eye-opening and thought-provoking read.

Kirkus Reviews

Read Full Review

An essential read for anyone interested in any aspect of antiracism or diversity, equity, and inclusion, or who generally wants to understand the current climate for Jewish people.

Library Journal, starred review

Read Full Review

In this clearly argued, readable, and passionate book, Rabbi Diana Fersko confronts the complicated set of poisonous ideas facing Jews in our times and seeks the tools and words to fight back. A crucial guide for those perplexed by the persistence of antisemitism and by what can be done about it.

Matti Friedman

Author of Who by Fire

Rabbi Diana Fersko’s book is written with passion, insight, and a deep commitment to the Jewish people. It shows how antisemitism enters different aspects of our life, sometimes without us realizing it. It is urgent to discuss these issues and Diana demonstrates to us how to do so.

Natan Sharansky

Soviet Dissident, human rights activist, and Chairman of the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy

‘Antisemitism is complicated and confusing’ — or so we all say. Diana’s book says otherwise, demystifying the convoluted subject with clarity, conviction, and real-life case studies. You’ll find yourself emotionally invested, nodding, gasping, sighing and eye-rolling your way through a book that could be a 101 course or a PhD study guide. You’ll be surprised that, with such a serious topic, you could thoroughly enjoy the read.

Amanda Berman

Founder and Executive Director, Zioness Movement

On Being Jewish Now: Reflections from Authors and Advocates

An intimate and hopeful collection of meaningful, smart, funny, sad, emotional, and inspiring essays from today’s authors and advocates about what it means to be Jewish, how life has changed since the attacks on October 7th, 2023, and the unique culture that brings this group together.

On October 7th, 2023, Jews in Israel were attacked in the largest pogrom since the Holocaust. It was a day felt by Jews everywhere who came together to process and speak out in ways some never had before. In this collection, 75 contributors speak to Jewish joy, celebration, laughter, food, trauma, loss, love, and family, and the common threads that course through the Jewish people: resilience and humor. Contributors include Mark Feuerstein, Jill Zarin, Steve Leder, Joanna Rakoff, Amy Ephron, Lisa Barr, Annabelle Gurwitch, Daphne Merkin, Bradley Tusk, Sharon Brous, Jenny Mollen, Nicola Kraus, Caroline Leavitt, and many others. On Being Jewish Now is edited by Zibby Owens, bestselling author, podcaster, bookstore owner, and CEO of Zibby Media.