Tuesday, October 10
1:45 pm Virtual Doors | 2:00 pm Program 
Live on Zoom
Free with Suggested $12 Donation

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Explore the delectable world of the Jewish deli with acclaimed author and illustrator Ben Nadler, as he takes us on a delightful tour through the pages of his latest graphic novel, The Jewish Deli: An Illustrated Guide to the Chosen Food. Joined by Jewish deli author and aficionado, Ted Merwin, the two will share anecdotes and best bites from their travels to delis across the country. From bialys in bustling cities to lox in laid back neighborhoods, the duo will paint a vivid picture of the deli culture near and far; past and present; and how the flavors and faces catalyze a sense of community that make each and every one feel like home. 

If you’re hungry to explore the history of Ashkenazi comfort food, this is a must-attend event that will surely satisfy your appetite for knowledge.

About the Book
In The Jewish Deli: An Illustrated Guide to the Chosen Food, Nadler skillfully weaves a vivid, interpretive Jewish history, tracing the genesis and evolution of these beloved foods. From the early days of Diaspora Jews adapting local flavors to their customs, to the thriving institutions of appetizing, deli, and Jewish bakeries in twentieth-century America, he unravels the fascinating culinary journey.

Drawing from his firsthand experiences with veritable Jewish Ashkenazi food purveyors, Nadler recounts whimsical play-by-plays of curing corned beef, filling a knish, and smoking salmon. He uncovers the true origins of black-and-white cookies and celebrates the unsung hero, dark rye bread, an emblem of European Jewish immigrants.

Purchase your copy of the book now at ShopTheWeitzman.org!

About the Author
Ben Nadler is an illustrator, designer, writer, and comics artist originally from Wisconsin. A graduate from the Rhode Island School of Design with a BFA in Illustration, he now lives, works, and enjoys the Jewish delis in New York City.

About the Moderator
Ted Merwin, Ph.D. taught religion and Judaic studies at Dickinson College (Carlisle, Pa) for more than 15 years and now works as chief speechwriter for the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA), based in New York and Washington, D.C. He is the author of two books, Pastrami on Rye, which won a National Jewish Book Award, and In Their Own Image: New York Jews in Jazz Age Popular Culture. His articles have appeared in the New York Times, New York Post, New York Daily News, Newsweek, Washington Post, Haaretz, and many other newspapers and magazines. He lives in Baltimore with his wife and three daughters. He blogs at his website, delihistory.com.

Presented by the Weitzman National Museum of American Jewish History in Partnership with the Jewish Book Council.

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