Where We Find Ourselves: Jewish Women Around the World Write about Home

In this poignant collection of essays, excerpts and poetry, associate professor Ben-Yoseph and poet/editor Rosen deliver a multifaceted definition of home. With work from some 40 Jewish women from all corners of the globe, this volume conveys a broad range of experiences with vibrant clarity and a shared understanding that home is more than a physical place. In Viva Hammer's essay, ""America,"" the Australian-born New York lawyer reveals that for her feeling at home depends on neighbors who sharing her beliefs and interests, regardless of any one person's birthplace; other contributors testify that the idea of home will always be embodied by their birthplaces or first abodes, regardless of current residence. Other essays tackle travel; on her dream trip to England, Romanian psychologist and social activist Maria Roth divulges her acute loneliness, relieved only by memories of family, comfort food and familiar locales. Though the authors share a common religion, each piece is clearly differentiated by geography, ancestry and tradition. Though sometimes cheerless, this thoughtful, humbling and undeniably spirited collection makes a comforting touchstone.