Seeking the Fabled City

This book provides a comprehensive account of the Jewish experience in Canada, detailing their historical journey and cultural impact. Seeking the Fabled City is a remarkable exploration.

In Seeking the Fabled City, award-winning author Allan Levine presents a definitive and meticulously researched account of the Jewish experience in Canada. This narrative is rich and accessible, often revealing surprising elements that contribute to its epic scope. The book draws on an abundance of primary sources, first-hand documentation, and interviews, allowing readers to engage deeply with the historical journey of the Jewish community in Canada.

The story unfolds over 250 years, beginning shortly after the conquest of New France in 1759, when Sephardic Jews of Spanish and Portuguese descent first arrived in British North America. It continues through the significant waves of Russian and Eastern European Jewish immigration at the turn of the twentieth century, culminating in the present day. Levine highlights how Canada's large Jewish community has flourished, free from the constraints of past anti-Semitism, illustrating the resilience and adaptability of this vibrant group.

Seeking the Fabled City chronicles a rich tapestry of experiences across hundreds of locales, primarily in major urban centers like Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, and Winnipeg, but also in smaller villages and towns. This riveting drama features a cast of thousands, reflecting both the successes and failures faced by those who journeyed through history. Levine's work is not just a historical account; it is a celebration of a community's enduring spirit and contributions to Canadian society.