by Rafi Josselson
As summer approaches, many students begin their summer reading. To discover some books that students should read, Rafi Josselson asked teachers around the school about their summer book recommendations.
Title: The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay
Genre: Fiction
Recommended by: Dr. Aviv
The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay showcases the great contributions of Jewish artists to the comic book and superhero genre. The novel focuses on the life of a fictional Jewish artist named Joe Kalavier and a fictional Jewish Artist named Sammy Clay. The story is set in the 1920s and 30s. The book has received several literary awards including the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction and the National Book Critics Circle Award. It is 639 pages long and is written by Michael Chabon.
Title: Who Moved my Cheese?
Genre: Life Lessons
Recommended by: Rabbi Zilberger
Who Moved my Cheese teaches leadership skills by telling the story of four mice reacting to the disappearance of their cheese. The book contrasts the reaction of the two mice who search for new cheese with the two mice who do nothing and complain. The lesson of the book is to embrace change as far as possible to explore the opportunities for success. It is 94 pages long and is written by Dr. Spencer Johnson.
Title: How to Create a Mind
Genre: Science and Technology
Recommended by: Mr. Cleaver
How to Create a Mind focuses on how the human mind works and how computers could possibly replicate or surpass human brain capacity. The book showcases how interconnected all areas of science are and how increases in neuroscientific research could lead to innovations in technology. The book is 352 pages long and is written by Ray Kurzwell.
Title: The Plot Against America
Genre: Fiction (Alternate History)
Recommended by: Mr. Mond
The Plot Against America depicts an alternate world where Nazi Sympathizer and Aviator, Charles Lindbergh, wins the presidency. The book brings to life important political issues that still affect us today including anti semitism and xenophobia. The Plot Against America received a six-part miniseries adaptation on HBO max in 2020. The book is 400 pages long and is written by Phillip Roth.
Title: The Art of Racing in the Rain
Genre: Fiction
Recommended by: Ms. Silverstein
The Art of Racing in the Rain follows race car driver Denny Swift and his dog Enzo, who is convinced that if he’s prepared and knowledgeable enough about human life, that he will be reincarnated into a human. It turns out that Enzo knows way more about humans, what they need, and the human condition more than anyone else in Denny’s life as he helps his owner navigate through his greatest challenges. Silverstein said that this book taught her about animals and their capability to be way more than “man’s best friend.” She added that there is no more human emotion as helpful as empathy. The book is 330 pages and is written by Garth Stein.
Title: Between The World And Me
Genre: Non-Fiction
Recommended by: Mr. Simon
Between the World and Me is written from the perspective of a black father to his son, he recounts his experiences of living as a black man in America. The book explains how certain outcomes and circumstances in his life were predetermined by his skin color. The book also covers the important issues of police brutality and systemic racism. Mr. Simon explained that this book enabled him to understand the urgency behind the Black Lives Matter movement and transformed his understanding of American history and society. The book is 176 pages long and was written by Ta-Nehisi Coates.
Title: Little Fires Everywhere
Genre: Fiction
Recommended by: Ms. Mazo
Little Fires Everywhere explores the conflict between order and secrecy. The book is set in Shaker Heights, Ohio and focuses on two mothers, Artist Mia Warren and Housekeeper Elena Richardson. After renting a house from Richardson, Mia and her daughter Pearl attempt to adapt to Suburban Life. However, conflict occurs when Richardson tries to learn more about Mia’s mysterious past. The book is 352 pages and was written by Celeste Ng.
