When I chose a Jewish life, I was hungry for anything that could tell me exactly what I was signing up for. Judaism is ancient and traditional, but it is also dynamic and ever-adaptable. Bobbi Kwall has written the book I needed then, and what a joy to read it now and remind myself of the breadth of Jewish life and ingenuity.
.. .a celebration of Jewish life and culture, chock full of practical advice about tapping into Jewish traditions and values to enrich our lives and relationships. .. Whatever your level of Jewish identity and observance, Remix Judaism overflows with fresh, inspirational advice.
Kwall demonstrates her deep understanding of the contemporary Jewish narratives by applying a wide array of wisdom from Jewish texts, personal stories and even prayers to the realities of today’s diaspora Jews. She makes the clear argument for “why” and “how” this Remix reality can help us all better participate in our Jewish lives, and she does it in a way that both educates and entertains. Remix Judaism provides a fresh clarity to our often opaque and ever shifting moment in the Jewish American landscape.
For a person who cares about the future of Judaism, this book presents a tremendous opportunity to take a journey with Kwall and think deeply about what it means to care about Judaism in this generation and generations to come.
In Remix Judaism Roberta Kwall puts forward a convincing case for liberal Jews holding tight to certain Jewish rituals and traditions even as they seek a Judaism flexible and meaningful enough to transmit to their children. It's an important message for our community, at this critical time.
In our polarized world, where left and right seldom mingle, where innovation and tradition are seen as enemies, Roberta Kwall has found a way, as an observant Jew, to reach a hand out to liberal and secular Jews, talking in a respectful way about how anybody can integrate Jewish practices into the well-lived life. Kwall is a pal, a teacher, and the ultimate Jewish life coach.
Writing with much sympathy and in an accessible, non-doctrinaire style about the complexities of living as an active Jew in contemporary America, Roberta Kwall has set herself the task of encouraging the broad spectrum of non-Orthodox Jews to give Judaism a second look because she is convinced their lives will be enriched immeasurably through the teachings and practices of their ancestors.
At this crucial moment, when Jewish life is at a crossroads between engagement and abandonment of Jewish knowledge, ritual and identity, Roberta Kwall reignites the tradition in all its vibrant colors. Remix Judaism might as well be called “Recharge Judaism,” because Kwall wakes us up, reminds us why Judaism powerfully endures, how it can feed our souls, focus our choices, and connect us to a powerful inheritance that’s worth prioritizing. This accessible, wise, important book should be on every shelf.
Remix Judaism, a beautifully written and deeply personal book, rooted in both wisdom and scholarship, deserves the wide readership that its author hopes to find.
Kwall’s book should resonate with readers familiar with modern Jewish life, yet also be accessible to others, especially to those in ethnic or religious groups facing similar issues and to students in religious studies courses interested in contemporary hybrid observances.
Remix Judaism shows the diversity of opportunities for engagement in Jewish life that exists today.. .. Kwall’s book brings plenty of material to a book club discussion [and] has the potential to encourage conversations in families and among close friends. .. a remarkably accurate snapshot of where American Jews find themselves right now.
Remix Judaism is a must-read for Jews of all levels of observance. It creates the space for such an important discussion on how we can, and are, preserving the most vital aspects of Jewish tradition for generations to come."
Decalogue Tablets Carrie Seleman
Remix Judaism is a critically important work. In a world where young people face unprecedented alienation and breakdown of meaning, Jewish living has so much to offer. But with so many young Jews distant from their heritage, it must be presented in ways that resonate and meet them where they are. Professor Kwall understands these opportunities and challenges and her book serves as a guide on how to access and make meaningful our sacred resources of wisdom, culture and spirituality.
Remix Judaism sets out to enable the reader to find meaning in and create an authentic Jewish life. Responding to recent research on trends in the American Jewish community, Kwall recognizes the realities of 21st century life and offers ways in which Judaism may provide guidance, relevance, and insight for living in these times. Kwall believes in the preservation of the religious and cultural traditions of Judaism and at the same time strives to make Judaism accessible, opening doorways into Jewish practice and exploration in an empowering way.
Rabbi Dr. Laura Novak Winer
In Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall presents a lovingly-constructed portrait of postmodern, post-denominational Judaism in North America. Her extensive research is studded with touching, insightful anecdotes that will delight and inspire, inviting the reader into self-reflection and into dialogue with the tradition. Kwall’s thoughtful examination of the foundational pillars of Jewish life, and the diverse ways in which they are “remixed” by Jews today, brings her audience into a new appreciation for the multifaceted, multivalent nature of modern Jewish life. This marvelous book will provide Kwall’s diverse audience with a joyful affirmation of the way in which today’s diverse “remix Judaism” provides for heightened meaning in one’s life.
Remix Judaism is a sourcebook of great Jewish ideas and a guidebook for living Jewishly in the 21st century. Robertal Kwall manages to be both descriptive and perscriptive, charting a path for how Jewish living can thrive in contemporary society. This is not a book for the future; this is a vital book for right now.
One of the most beautiful and compelling truths about Judaism is that it evolves and keeps pace with modernity. Roberta Rosenthal Kwall’s book is a timely contribution to this generation’s search. This book captures the wonder of Jewish traditions and makes them assessable to all who are searching.
Remix Judaism is a sourcebook of great Jewish ideas and a guidebook for living Jewishly in the 21st century. Robertal Kwall manages to be both descriptive and perscriptive, charting a path for how Jewish living can thrive in contemporary society. This is not a book for the future; this is a vital book for right now.
In Remix Judaism, Kwall makes the case that Judaism is an aspirational tradition where diversity and disagreement can simultaneously be a tremendous challenge and our greatest strength. Kwall’s writings always challenge my thinking through her combination of meticulous research, well-crafted arguments, copious references to traditional and modern Jewish sources, and fidelity to Jewish tradition. For a person who cares about the future of Judaism, this book presents a tremendous opportunity to take a journey with Kwall and think deeply about what it means to care about Judaism in this generation and generations to come.
Everyone knows that Jewish life in America is changing, but can American Jews take control of that change? In Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall lays out a way to think about Jewish identity and practice that embraces all Jews, and encourages American Jews to "remix" their tradition with care, thought, and an eye towards sustainable transmission for future generations. Packed with religious insights, recent studies, and concrete suggestions, Kwall has produced a book for anybody interested in the future of Judaism in America.
In her insightful book professor Roberta Kwall offers a challenge to the world wide Jewish community and especially the liberal community in North America. Citing example after example she offers a path for all those who want to make their Judaism meaningful.Steeped in modern Jewish sociology, survey studies, personal interviews, and stories from the field, Kwall demonstrates that a Jewish tradition which is open to personal meaning, flexibility, and innovation can make a difference even in the lives of those who may not feel impelled by its legal structure. Kwall has produced a book which will challenge Jewish clergy, educators and thought leaders even as it challenges those who want to find their path in Judaism through their own practice. It is a book worth reading and thinking about and for that we should be thankful for the insights of the author and the passion with which they are expressed.
Roberta Kwall grapples with the challenges and opportunities of an open and diverse society to offer pathways for engagement and deepened connection to Judaism for cultural and secular Jews.
Roberta Rosenthal Kwall's work reveals a deep examination of the unfolding nature of Jewish tradition in modernity, especially here in America. Kwall's analysis proves relevant for people in all stages of life. Her unique background allows her the ability to craft explanations that make this a great resource for those who are new to the Jewish tradition as well as those for whom the Jewish tradition is familiar territory.
Rabbi Nolan Lebovitz Lebovitz
Remix Judaism is a thought-provoking book filled with justification, stories, and ways to lead an assimilated lifestyle while being intentional about your Judaism. It encourages an individualistic approach to what Judaism means to you as an individual, couple, or family at any stage in your life and how to pass your tradition and culture on to those around you. As a millennial Jewish summer camp professional who works with the next generation of the Jewish people, I believe Kwall's remix Judaism is the direction my campers should embody as they begin their own journeys to discovering their Jewish identities.
Roberta Kwall’s informative and passionate new book melds some of the most meaningful Jewish customs and traditions with modern societal values and sensitivities. Her book provides enjoyable ways to preserve Jewish culture, in such areas as Shabbat and holidays, life cycle events, the roles of parents and grandparents, tikkun olam and much more. So many of the things we do on a day to day basis present opportunities to infuse them with Judaism, thus making them more meaningful and enjoyable. This book is a great guide to accomplishing that.
Remix Judaism is a critically important work. In a world where young people face unprecedented alienationand breakdown of meaning, Jewish living has so much to offer. But with so many young Jews distant from their heritage, it must be presented in ways that resonate and meet them where they are. Professor Kwall understands these opportunities and challenges and her bookservesas a guide on how to access and make meaningful our sacred resources of wisdom, culture and spirituality.
Lucidly and engagingly written, Roberta Rosenthal Kwall’s Remix Judaism is a must-read for Jews and other “willing listeners” seeking to deepen their connection to Judaism in ways other than through traditional Jewish legal observance. Emphasizing “tradition” rather than “law,” Kwall advocates a “remix” strategy of personal choice of rituals and traditions rooted in the normative Jewish legal tradition that are infused with personal meaning and practiced consistently. Blending personal narratives and a scholar’s perspective, Kwall illustrates “remixes” of Shabbat, Jewish food traditions, marriage, children’s education and b’nei mitzvah, grandparenting, mourning, and tikkun olam. Kwall’s emphasis on the importance of Jewish education, the joyful, thoughtful, and consistent appropriation of Jewish traditions, and the contemporary need to balance the normative Jewish legal tradition with a search for personal meaning makes Remix Judaism an indispensable starting-point for all those seeking a rich, meaningful Jewish life outside the scope of traditional Jewish legal observance.
Remix Judaismsets out to enable the reader to find meaning in and create an authentic Jewish life. Responding to recent research on trends in the American Jewish community, Kwall recognizes the realities of 21stcentury life and offers ways in which Judaism may provide guidance, relevance, and insight for living in these times. Kwall believes in the preservation of the religious and cultural traditions of Judaism and at the same time strives to make Judaism accessible, opening doorways into Jewish practice and exploration in an empowering way.
InRemix Judaism, Roberta Kwall presents a lovingly-constructed portrait of postmodern, post-denominational Judaism in North America. Her extensive research is studded with touching, insightful anecdotes that will delight and inspire, inviting the reader into self-reflection and into dialogue with the tradition. Kwall’s thoughtful examination of the foundational pillars of Jewish life, and the diverse ways in which they are “remixed” by Jews today, brings her audience into a new appreciation for the multifaceted, multivalent nature of modern Jewish life. This marvelous book will provide Kwall’s diverse audience with a joyful affirmation of the way in which today’s diverse “remix Judaism” provides for heightened meaning in one’s life.
Remix Judaism does a fantastic job of drawing on Jewish text and real-life anecdotes to help people who really want to build Jewish community see multiple ways to do it. Roberta's love of Jewish tradition, of creativity and Jewish peoplehood, shines through the chapters of this book. Whether one considers oneself observant or secular, atheist or believer, Remix Judaism ultimately helps the reader envision a colorful and diverse Jewish future that transcends denominations and mines the gold at the heart of Jewish tradition.
Kwall lovingly interweaves her personal Jewish journey with the unique stories of fellow travelers. The result: a more expansive and inclusive understanding of Jewish culture. Whether you agree or disagree with Remix Judaism’s premise, you’ll be inspired by Kwall’s use of Jewish culture as a springboard for intergenerational discussion.
One of the most beautiful and compelling truths about Judaism is that it evolves and keeps pace with modernity. Roberta Rosenthal Kwall’s book is a timely contribution to this generation’s search.This book captures the wonder of Jewish traditions and makes them assessable to all who are searching.
In her insightful book professor Roberta Kwall offers a challenge to the world wide Jewish community and especially the liberal community in North America. Citing example after example she offers a path for all those who want to make their Judaism meaningful. Steeped in modern Jewish sociology, survey studies, personal interviews, and stories from the field, Kwall demonstrates that a Jewish tradition which is open to personal meaning, flexibility, and innovation can make a difference even in the lives of those who may not feel impelled by its legal structure. Kwall has produced a book which will challenge Jewish clergy, educators and thought leaders even as it challenges those who want to find their path in Judaism through their own practice. It is a book worth reading and thinking about and for that we should be thankful for the insights of the author and the passion with which they are expressed.
Roberta Kwall provides a new way to be Jewish in America! The book's “remixed” approach to contemporary Judaism means developing practical paths that are based in historical traditions. For anyone interested in the vibrancy of the Jewish community and religion, this book provides critical grounds for thoughtand action.
[Kwall’s] previous book, The Myth of the Cultural Jew, argues for the symbiosis between halakhaJewish lawand the cultures inhabited by Jewish communities. Remix Judaism brings together these interests, builds on the idea that Jewish practice is influenced by the ambient culture, and analyzes the extent of that influence.
As thoughtful and thought-provoking as it is inspired and inspiring, 'Remix Judaism' is an exceptionally well written, organized and presented study that will prove to be an enduringly popular and appreciated contribution to the growing body of Contemporary Judaic Studies literature.
Roberta Kwall grapples with the challenges and opportunities of an open and diverse society to offer pathways for engagement and deepened connection to Judaism for cultural and secular Jews.
[Kwall’s] previous book, The Myth of the Cultural Jew, argues for the symbiosis between halakha—Jewish law—and the cultures inhabited by Jewish communities. Remix Judaism brings together these interests, builds on the idea that Jewish practice is influenced by the ambient culture, and analyzes the extent of that influence.
Remix Judaism gives us permission to connect to Jewish life and traditions on our own terms and to see our experience as an authentic and meaningful expression of Jewish life.
CCAR Journal: The Reform Jewish Quarterly
[An] important new book. .. Remix Judaism offers one path toward remixing and renewing the beautiful, ancient, and marvelous ritual that keeps us and our children Jews, and in so doing, enhances the meaning and splendor of our lives.
There is no question in my mind that this work will be a guiding light to so many of us. If I could, I would make Remix Judaism required reading for all non-Orthodox Jews.
In Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall draws nimbly and intelligently from the wellsprings of Jewish tradition and practice so as to allow American Jews to forge a Judaism that is both meaningful and authentic. Kwall is a keen observer of the contemporary Jewish scene, and she offers a clear program for modern Jewish life that has the capacity to address and motivate individuals and community. Her creative and rooted vision of Judaism is both exciting and inspiring.
Kwall’s Remix Judaism is not a Judaism of pick-and-choose, but a Judaism of “go out and observe what the people are doing and act accordingly” (Talmud Bavli, Berakhot 45a). It recognizes that individual and familial practices vary widely, but calls for meeting people where they are and encouraging them to build on their practices by starting with what is already most meaningful about Jewish life to them and expanding outward. - Contemporary Jewry
Remix Judaism, a beautifully written and deeply personal book, rooted in both wisdom and scholarship, deserves the wide readership that its author hopes to find. Remix Judaism shows the diversity of opportunities for engagement in Jewish life that exists today.. .. Kwall’s book brings plenty of material to a book club discussion [and] has the potential to encourage conversations in families and among close friends. .. a remarkably accurate snapshot of where American Jews find themselves right now. Remix Judaism gives us permission to connect to Jewish life and traditions on our own terms and to see our experience as an authentic and meaningful expression of Jewish life. [An] important new book. .. Remix Judaism offers one path toward remixing and renewing the beautiful, ancient, and marvelous ritual that keeps us and our children Jews, and in so doing, enhances the meaning and splendor of our lives. Kwall’s book should resonate with readers familiar with modern Jewish life, yet also be accessible to others, especially to those in ethnic or religious groups facing similar issues and to students in religious studies courses interested in contemporary hybrid observances. .. .a celebration of Jewish life and culture, chock full of practical advice about tapping into Jewish traditions and values to enrich our lives and relationships. .. Whatever your level of Jewish identity and observance, Remix Judaism overflows with fresh, inspirational advice. [Kwall’s] previous book, The Myth of the Cultural Jew, argues for the symbiosis between halakha—Jewish law—and the cultures inhabited by Jewish communities. Remix Judaism brings together these interests, builds on the idea that Jewish practice is influenced by the ambient culture, and analyzes the extent of that influence.
Kwall is at her best in discussing creative marriage practices. The Shabbat chapter offers multiple accounts of “remixed” ways families observe the Sabbath: one family drives some distance Friday nights to share Shabbat dinner together during dad’s break, since he cannot get off to join the family at home. Other chapters discuss food, education and bar/bat mitzvahs, grandparents, Tikkun Olam, and mourning. Kwall argues that the Jewish community should embrace these remixed practices as authentic ways of inculcating Judaism. .. Kwall’s book should resonate with readers familiar with modern Jewish life, yet also be accessible to others, especially to those in ethnic or religious groups facing similar issues and to students in religious studies courses interested in contemporary hybrid observances.
Remix Judaism speaks to a moment of sharp Jewish polarity, when a vast majority of Jews tell pollsters that being Jewish is more important than doing Jewish.