Jewish icons and their experiences, whether rooted in history or contemporary times, provide powerful narratives that resonate deeply with themes of identity, belonging, culture and resilience. In traditional stories, some of the most prominent Jewish icons in literature are religious leaders and historical figures. Characters like Moses, King David, and Rabbi Akiva are often central to narratives that delve into Jewish spirituality and leadership. These novels explore the challenges and triumphs of guiding a people through faith, struggle, and survival.
However, contemporary novels about history focus on iconic Jewish political and social leaders. Figures like Theodor Herzl, who is considered a father of modern Zionism, or Ben-Gurion, the first Prime Minister of Israel, appear in both fiction and non-fiction that discuss the creation of Israel and the broader Jewish diaspora. These stories offer readers a glimpse into the complex dynamics of nation-building and identity.
Today’s Jewish fiction explores the lives of everyday Jewish individuals navigating modern society. Novels such as The Mystics of Mile End by Sigal Samuel, The Book of V. by Anna Solomon, and Fleishman is in Trouble by Taffy Brodesser-Akner examine Jewish identity through the lens of family, personal struggles, mental health and communities while grappling with themes like intergenerational trauma, spirituality and secularism, and the search for meaning in today’s world.
Contributing to the culture
Jewish fiction for young adults has also gained popularity. Unlike traditional Holocaust or historical Jewish literature, these stories focus on the unique challenges faced by younger generations today. Below are some popular YA Jewish novels that explore identity, culture, and the complexities of growing up Jewish in a modern, diverse world.
BOUNDLESS
As the U.S. population undergoes rapid demographic changes, anthologies like BOUNDLESS, edited by Ismee Williams and Rebecca Balcarcel, highlight the complexities faced by multiracial and multicultural individuals. The collection features twenty stories of adolescents learning to navigate identity in a world where racial and religious boundaries are shifting.
COMING OF AGE: 13 B’NAI MITZVAH STORIES
Edited by Jonathan Rosen and Henry Herz, this anthology brings together stories of Jewish adolescents who face the trials of coming of age, whether in modern times or through time-travel. Some of the stories are autobiographical, while others delve into the imaginative, such as helping Noah with his ark. At its core, this collection emphasizes the courage to solve problems and express one’s true self, a theme that has long been a hallmark of the Jewish experience and storytelling.
ON ALL OTHER NIGHTS
ON ALL OTHER NIGHTS: A Passover Celebration in 14 Stories, edited by Chris Baron, Joshua S. Levy, and Naomi Milliner, uses the framework of the Passover Seder to present a diverse array of stories, genres, and authors. By introducing each story according to the steps of the Seder, this anthology beautifully ties Jewish traditions to broader human themes like slavery and freedom, destruction and rebuilding, family, and resilience.
ABBY TRIED AND TRUE
In ABBY TRIED AND TRUE by Donna Gephart, readers follow Abby Braverman, a young girl navigating middle school, new friendships, and her brother’s battle with cancer. With the support of her two moms and her Jewish grandparents, Abby faces fears about whether she will be brave enough when it really matters. This novel touches on universal themes of friendship, courage, and family support, while also portraying a family that reflects the diversity in Jewish culture.
Reflecting on Bullying and Loss: ORCHARDS
ORCHARDS by Holly Thompson addresses the serious issue of bullying and its tragic consequences. Kana Goldberg, a middle school girl of Jewish and Japanese heritage, is sent to her grandmother’s farm in Japan after a classmate’s suicide. While immersed in Japanese culture, Kana reflects on the role she and her peers played in the bullying that led to the tragedy. Like many stories of Jewish icons, Orchards emphasizes the importance of reflection, empathy, remembrance and community in the face of adversity.
Building a better world
Novels about Jewish icons offer a rich exploration of Jewish traditions and holidays, as well as the values that shape individual and collective identities. Whether focused on historical figures or everyday people, these stories provide a deep sense of discovery, helping readers connect with the past while reflecting on the present and future of Jewish life.