Seven sessions we want to hear at MJBW

Melbourne Jewish Book Week (MJBW) director Debbie Lee says this year's theme of belonging is particularly timely.

"It reflects where we are as a community – there is a real desire to feel connected," she says. “The common denominator is our Jewishness – a sustained sense of identity, and yes, even joy in bleak times.”

That doesn't mean every session at the festival will be easy listening, she warns. “We don't shy away from hard-hitting topics: the demise of journalism, Holocaust revisionism and child sexual abuse; we have much discussion around family, mental health and resilience; and we showcase international perspectives with Eleanor Reissa, Hila Blum and Marina Benjamin."

Here are The Jewish Independent's picks of seven not-to-miss sessions at the 2024 Melbourne Jewish Book Week Festival.

For a tasting board: MJBW Opening Night Gala

Setting the stage for this year’s festival is a theatrical night celebrating the creatives that comprises selections from the diverse 2024 program.

Intertwining the theme ‘Of Ghosts and Golems’, the gala showcases international authors alongside local writers and performers including Bram Presser, Arnold Zable, Alex Skovron, Tami Sussman and Evelyn Krape. The event is hosted and curated by award-winning author and playwright Elise Esther Hearst, author of One Day We’re All Going To Die, A Very Jewish Christmas Carol and, with Gary Abrahams and Galit Klas, the Australian production of Isaac Bashev's Singer's Yentl). Artworks by Anita Lester and live music also feature.