Join local author, Roberta Silman, for a discussion of her newest book, SUMMER LIGHTNING, a sweeping multi-generational novel that explores the journey of a Jewish family of immigrants in mid-20th-century America through the lens of Alexander Herzen's observation: Art, and the summer lightning of individual happiness, these are the only real goods we have. Set between 1927 and 1966, Belle and Isaac navigate the Depression, the Second World War, McCarthyism, and Civil Rights while starting a family and trying to find their place.  Compared to RAGTIME, its themes resonate with the challenges of today and focuses on the important questions of how to hang onto our values as we negotiate the world around us. 

Roberta Silman is the author of the story collection Blood Relations and of four novels, Boundaries, The Dream Dredger, Beginning the World Again, and Secrets and Shadows. 

This free program is part of the Federation’s Connecting with Community Series and will be followed by a kosher hot lunch. Lunch is a $3 suggested donation for adults over 60 years of age or $7 for all others. Advance reservations are required for lunch and can be made by calling (413) 442-2200 before 9 a.m. on the day of the program.

Masks are optional.