One of a writer’s greatest joys is READING great work.
Even when it’s not your own.
I recently had the opportunity to read two wonderful #BLEWISH memoirs and interview the authors of these great works, Michael W. Twitty and Nabil Ayers. Check them out!
Michael Twitty’s ‘Koshersoul’ blends history, culture and culinary identity
The master chef and culinary historian's new book looks at food, the Black and Jewish diasporas — and social justice
When Michael W. Twitty talks and writes about food, he goes beyond delectable gastronomic creations that tantalize the taste buds. The master chef and renowned culinary historian aims to satiate people’s souls by turning his unique blend of culture, tradition, identity and social justice into an irresistible feast that celebrates humanity. His latest book, “Koshersoul: The Faith and Food Journey of an African American Jew,” explores the foods and traditions of the two diasporas that encompass his identity.
“I wanted ‘Koshersoul’ to be a love letter to being Black and Jewish in the state that we’re in this country in this moment,” he said. “This book is like challah: a weaving of food memoir, recipes, personal essays, human vulnerability and about the long story of the intersection of Black and Jewish history and culture. This is not an academic journey, and it’s purposely not a cookbook. It’s an eclectic READ MORE
Growing up with a Jewish mom and a famous dad he never knew — the jazz musician Roy Ayers
Nabil Ayers' memoir reflects on family, identity and his journey to connect with a Black father who was 'really just DNA'
Nabil Ayers carries the surname of a famous father he barely knows, except in the ubiquitous music of Roy Ayers – most famously in the 1976 jazz-soul-funk album by that name featuring the hit “Everybody Loves the Sunshine.” For the younger Ayers, it pops up to surprise him when he least expects it.
Flashback to 1970, when Louise Braufman, a white Jewish former ballerina working as a waitress in New York took one look at the rising African American jazz composer and vibraphonist and thought she’d have a baby with him.
After a few casual dates, she asked Roy Ayers and he agreed, cautioning her that READ MORE
Speaking of great #BLEWISH memoirs, if you haven’t yet checked out mine, please CLICK on the image below for a quick peek!
Each of these stories reminds us that there are many ways to be #BLEWISH, that representation not only matters but benefits everyone, and that all our stories need to be told and shared!