Detroit Bookstore Embraces Local Authors

On November 14, a diverse audience braved the chilly rainy night to attend a book talk at Schuler’s Books in West Bloomfield, Michigan. The presentation, moderated by Joy Wolfe Ensor, featured authors Ava Adler and Julie Goldstein Ellis who have Detroit area roots. The talk centered  on the importance of community, connection and kindness in enduring trauma and suffering. The readings were powerful and, as always, the lively discussion was a highlight of the evening. Audience members asked the authors and each other probing questions about the impact of recent national and world events. Who was feeling triggered by the current political rhetoric? Who has been hesitant to present as visibly Jewish (for example, by wearing Jewish stars?), and how might we overcome this anxiety? How do we skillfully navigate generational differences in our approach to hot-button international affairs? Several attendees were repeat guests, having heard a couple of our authors at previous presentations. This validated our sense that our stories continue to be important for offering new insights and lessons in our ever-changing world.