What would summer be without great books to read? We’re happy to share recommendations from some of the JCAN NYC members who are responsible for creating the highly popular pre-Shabbat message.
Ace Leveen, writes the reflection section of the pre-Shabbat message
Am I Too Old to Save the Planet? by Lawrence MacDonald A surprisingly easy read. We learn the short history of where things went wrong in terms of the climate and what we can do now. Read it and share it!
Orbital by Samantha Harvey A gorgeous novel about six astronauts orbiting the earth sixteen times in one day. Harvey reminds us of the vastness of the universe and the beauty of the precious earth we are working to save. I loved it!
Jeff Levy-Lyons, writes the reflection section of the pre-Shabbat message
The Secret Despair of the Secular Left: Our Fraying Connections with Our Communities, Our Bodies, and the Earth by Ana Levy-Lyons This book examines how modernity and a secular framing of life cuts us off from the spiritual resources we need. It lifts up ancient religious practices to reground us in the fundamental relationships with our soul/bodies, our communities, and the Earth .
The Pearl and the Flame: A journey into Jewish Wisdom and Ecological Thinking by Natan Margalit Rabbi Margalit, a Jewish scholar and the founder of Organic Torah, draws on ancient wisdom to reveal the mistaken notion that humans are separate from, rather than a part of, a greater wholeness.
Rachel Landsberg, writes the reflection section of the pre-Shabbat message
I recently read Rabbi Yitz Greenberg's book The Triumph of Life: A Narrative Theology of Judaism. Rabbi Greenberg claims that God is One who loves life, and human beings are created to choose life in all that we do. As a Jewish climate activist, this theology speaks directly to me and helps give Jewish language to our climate work of creating a sustainable world built on justice and interconnections where every living being can thrive.
Mary Krieger, manages outreach to synagogues and subscribers
The Book of Eels by Patrick Svensson is a fascinating meditation on the cultural significance and life cycle of the mysterious eel. You will come away with a renewed respect for the complexity of the natural world.
Jessi Thompson, writes the advocacy section of the pre-Shabbat message
Limitarianism: The Case Against Extreme Wealth by Ingrid Robeyns. Robeyns lays out a clear and compelling case for limiting the amount of wealth individuals can acquire. While not her sole focus, the impact of this problem on the climate crisis is a central pillar in her argument. Not exactly a beach read, but surprisingly readable.