Erika Dreifus

Toward the end of each week, the My Machberet blog presents a collection of links, drawn primarily from the world of Jewish books and writing.

• Coming soon for those of you lucky enough to be near Bar Ilan University in Israel: the 2024 International Creative Writing Conference, in memory of Founding Director Shaindy Rudoff, z’’l. (I’m hoping that at least some of the speakers’ remarks will be recorded for sharing afterwards!)
• Via Tablet: a simply stunning piece by Rachel Shalev (trans. Inbar Perez): “The Illustrated Hostage Diary of Moran Stella Yanai.”
• New contest alert: Launched this Jewish American Heritage month by the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM): Voices of Heritage Writing Contest. “Participants are invited to submit original essays, stories, or poems that capture the rich tapestry of Jewish life in America. We encourage entries that reflect on historical milestones, personal narratives, or profiles of influential Jewish Americans who have shaped the nation’s culture and values. This contest not only celebrates the past and present achievements of Jewish Americans but also aims to educate others about their enduring legacy and continuing impact.” Prizes (for each category: “historical insights,” “personal stories,” “profiles of influence”): “first prize of $3,000, second prize of $1,500, and up to ten runner-up prizes of $500 each. Winning entries will be prominently featured in a special publication on CAM’s digital platforms.” Deadline: June 15.
• In case you missed it: a recording of Monday evening’s conversation between Gal Beckerman and prolific literary translator-from-the-Hebrew Jessica Cohen.
• And last, but perhaps not least: my own latest published piece is a flash micro-essay titled “Breaking News,” which details my initial discovery of the events of October 7. I’m grateful to Green Golem for publishing it (and for the astonishing accompanying art) and to Writing on the Wall for helping me write it in the first place.

I have continued to update the “After October 7: Readings, Recordings, and More” document-in-progress. Check also cautionary information (also, alas, updated this week) as compiled under the title “Writers, Beware.”

Shabbat shalom.