Book Club (After Hours)

Service Description

Prerequisite: Initial Consultation with Aviv Bertele This course is designed for learners who have previously completed Level Gimmerl or above and wish to immerse themselves in the richness of contemporary Hebrew literature. Our chosen book for this semester is "המורה לעברית" written by the profound author Maya Arad, detailing the intersecting lives of three women, or their descendants, who once migrated to the United States. Ilana, a seasoned Hebrew professor in the Midwest, has built a mini-empire of teaching Hebrew. However, when a new young professor of Hebrew literature arrives, she finds herself not facing a comrade but a formidable adversary, leading her into a whirlwind of professional and political battles to defend her life's work. Miriam, whose son has started a family in the U.S., realizes she must make a significant move to get to know her newly born grandchild, leading to unexpected revelations about her son's life and familial challenges. Efrat, an Israeli living in California, is determined to assist her daughter navigating social challenges in middle school. Her venture into her daughter's online social networks not only crosses numerous boundaries but unveils layers of complexities. Maya Arad's precise and insightful prose seamlessly blends humor and irony with a deep sensitivity to her characters and their motivations. She encourages her heroines to act, confront the gaps that appear in their lives, and learn from their setbacks about growth and maturity. The coursework involves collective reading portions during class, with the remaining sections assigned for at-home study. Class discussions will delve into various themes found in the book, providing a comprehensive understanding. The course is conducted in our welcoming and pleasant Ulpan in Tel Aviv. The book for the course is included as part of the package.