Remix Judaism

In Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall presents a lovingly-constructed portrait of postmodern, post-denominational Judaism in North America. Her extensive research is studded with touching, insightful anecdotes that will delight and inspire, inviting the reader into self-reflection and into dialogue with the tradition. Kwall’s thoughtful examination of the foundational pillars of Jewish life, and the diverse ways in which they are “remixed” by Jews today, brings her audience into a new appreciation for the multifaceted, multivalent nature of modern Jewish life. This marvelous book will provide Kwall’s diverse audience with a joyful affirmation of the way in which today’s diverse “remix Judaism” provides for heightened meaning in one’s life. -- Oren J. Hayon, Congregation Emanu El, Houston, Texas
When I chose a Jewish life, I was hungry for anything that could tell me exactly what I was signing up for. Judaism is ancient and traditional, but it is also dynamic and ever-adaptable. Bobbi Kwall has written the book I needed then, and what a joy to read it now and remind myself of the breadth of Jewish life and ingenuity. -- Al Rosenberg, director of strategy and communication, OneTable
Remix Judaism sets out to enable the reader to find meaning in and create an authentic Jewish life. Responding to recent research on trends in the American Jewish community, Kwall recognizes the realities of 21st century life and offers ways in which Judaism may provide guidance, relevance, and insight for living in these times.  Kwall believes in the preservation of the religious and cultural traditions of Judaism and at the same time strives to make Judaism accessible, opening doorways into Jewish practice and exploration in an empowering way.   -- Rabbi Laura Novak Winer, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
Remix Judaism does a fantastic job of drawing on Jewish text and real-life anecdotes to help people who really want to build Jewish community see multiple ways to do it. Roberta's love of Jewish tradition, of creativity and Jewish peoplehood, shines through the chapters of this book. Whether one considers oneself observant or secular, atheist or believer, Remix Judaism ultimately helps the reader envision a colorful and diverse Jewish future that transcends denominations and mines the gold at the heart of Jewish tradition. -- Rabbi Lizzi Heydemann, Mishkan Chicago
Lucidly and engagingly written, Roberta Rosenthal Kwall’s Remix Judaism is a must-read for Jews and other “willing listeners” seeking to deepen their connection to Judaism in ways other than through traditional Jewish legal observance. Emphasizing “tradition” rather than “law,” Kwall advocates a “remix” strategy of personal choice of rituals and traditions rooted in the normative Jewish legal tradition that are infused with personal meaning and practiced consistently. Blending personal narratives and a scholar’s perspective, Kwall illustrates “remixes” of Shabbat, Jewish food traditions, marriage, children’s education and b’nei mitzvah, grandparenting, mourning, and tikkun olam. Kwall’s emphasis on the importance of Jewish education, the joyful, thoughtful, and consistent appropriation of Jewish traditions, and the contemporary need to balance the normative Jewish legal tradition with a search for personal meaning makes Remix Judaism an indispensable starting-point for all those seeking a rich, meaningful Jewish life outside the scope of traditional Jewish legal observance. -- Alyssa M. Gray, professor of codes and responsa literature, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
Remix Judaism is a critically important work. In a world where young people face unprecedented alienation and breakdown of meaning, Jewish living has so much to offer.  But with so many young Jews distant from their heritage, it must be presented in ways that resonate and meet them where they are.  Professor Kwall understands these opportunities and challenges and her book serves as a guide on how to access and make meaningful our sacred resources of wisdom, culture and spirituality.  -- Ari Hart, Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob Synagogue
One of the most beautiful and compelling truths about Judaism is that it evolves and keeps pace with modernity. Roberta Rosenthal Kwall’s book is a timely contribution to this generation’s search. This book captures the wonder of Jewish traditions and makes them assessable to all who are searching. -- Karyn D. Kedar, author of The Bridge to Forgiveness, Stories and Prayers for Finding God and Restoring Wholeness
Roberta Kwall’s informative and passionate new book melds some of the most meaningful Jewish customs and traditions with modern societal values and sensitivities. Her book provides enjoyable ways to preserve Jewish culture, in such areas as Shabbat and holidays, life cycle events, the roles of parents and grandparents, tikkun olam and much more. So many of the things we do on a day to day basis present opportunities to infuse them with Judaism, thus making them more meaningful and enjoyable. This book is a great guide to accomplishing that.  -- Mark Trencher, president, Nishma Research
Kwall lovingly interweaves her personal Jewish journey with the unique stories of fellow travelers. The result: a more expansive and inclusive understanding of Jewish culture. Whether you agree or disagree with Remix Judaism’s premise, you’ll be inspired by Kwall’s use of Jewish culture as a springboard for intergenerational discussion. -- Hayim Herring, organizational futurist, coach and author of Connecting Generations: Bridging the Boomer, Gen X, and Millennial Divide
Remix Judaism is a thought-provoking book filled with justification, stories, and ways to lead an assimilated lifestyle while being intentional about your Judaism.  It encourages an individualistic approach to what Judaism means to you as an individual, couple, or family at any stage in your life and how to pass your tradition and culture on to those around you.  As a millennial Jewish summer camp professional who works with the next generation of the Jewish people, I believe Kwall's remix Judaism is the direction my campers should embody as they begin their own journeys to discovering their Jewish identities.       -- Gabrielle Gordon, assistant director, Camp Young Judaea Midwest
Roberta Rosenthal Kwall's work reveals a deep examination of the unfolding nature of the Jewish Tradition in modernity, especially here in America.  Kwall's analysis proves relevant for people in all stages of life.  Her unique background allows for her the ability to craft explanations that make this a great resource for those who are new to the Jewish Tradition and for those who have been contemplating contemporary challenges for quite some time.  I recommend reading it for all interested in understanding how to live according to Halacha (Jewish Law) today.  -- Rabbi Nolan Lebovitz Lebovitz, Adat Shalom, Los Angeles, California
In Remix Judaism: Preserving Tradition in a Diverse World, Roberta Kwall draws nimbly and intelligently from the wellsprings of Jewish tradition and practice so as to allow American Jews to forge a Judaism that is both meaningful and authentic. Kwall is a keen observer of the contemporary Jewish scene, and she offers a clear program for modern Jewish life that has the capacity to address and motivate individuals and community. Her creative and rooted vision of Judaism is both exciting and inspiring. Remix Judaism will deservedly garner a wide readership! -- Rabbi David Ellenson, Chancellor Emeritus of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion
Roberta Kwall grapples with the challenges and opportunities of an open and diverse society to offer pathways for engagement and deepened connection to Judaism for cultural and secular Jews. -- Deborah Waxman, president, Reconstructing Judaism
Roberta Kwall provides a new way to be Jewish in America! The book's “remixed” approach to contemporary Judaism means developing practical paths that are based in historical traditions.  For anyone interested in the vibrancy of the Jewish community and religion, this book provides critical grounds for thought—and action. -- Naomi Cahn, George Washington University Law School
In her insightful book professor Roberta Kwall offers a challenge to the world wide Jewish community and especially the liberal community in North America. Citing example after example she offers a path for all those who want to make their Judaism meaningful. Steeped in modern Jewish sociology, survey studies, personal interviews, and stories from the field, Kwall demonstrates that a Jewish tradition which is open to personal meaning, flexibility, and innovation can make a difference even in the lives of those who may not feel impelled by its legal structure.  Kwall has produced a book which will challenge Jewish clergy, educators and thought leaders even as it challenges those who want to find their path in Judaism through their own practice.  It is a book worth reading and thinking about and for that we should be thankful for the insights of the author and the passion with which they are expressed. -- Vernon Kurtz, Rabbi Emeritus North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, past president American Zionist Movement, past president international Rabbinical Assembly
Everyone knows that Jewish life in America is changing, but can American Jews take control of that change? In Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall lays out a way to think about Jewish identity and practice that embraces all Jews, and encourages American Jews to "remix" their tradition with care, thought, and an eye towards sustainable transmission for future generations. Packed with religious insights, recent studies, and concrete suggestions, Kwall has produced a book for anybody interested in the future of Judaism in America. -- Shira Telushkin, author of “Thou Shalt” Jewish advice column, Tablet Magazine
Professor Kwall, one of the prominent scholars of modern American Jewry, wrote Remix Judaism as a follow-up to The Myth of the Cultural Jew. Her new book touches the lives of so many of us who live in a non-Orthodox world yet strive to maintain a strong connection to our Judaism.  With over 34 years in a pulpit, I have dealt with congregants of all ages and backgrounds who have been dealing with the issues identified by Kwall.  Her diverse sources are masterfully woven into the fabric of her narrative. There is no question in my mind that this work will be a guiding light to so many of us. If I could, I would make Remix Judaism required reading for all non-Orthodox Jews. -- Rabbi Chuck Diamond, Former Rabbi of the Tree of Life – Or L’Simcha, Pittsburgh, PA
In Remix Judaism, Kwall makes the case that Judaism is an aspirational tradition where diversity and disagreement can simultaneously be a tremendous challenge and our greatest strength. Kwall’s writings always challenge my thinking through her combination of meticulous research, well-crafted arguments, copious references to traditional and modern Jewish sources, and fidelity to Jewish tradition. For a person who cares about the future of Judaism, this book presents a tremendous opportunity to take a journey with Kwall and think deeply about what it means to care about Judaism in this generation and generations to come. -- Joshua Rabin, senior director of synagogue leadership, United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ)
Remix Judaism is a sourcebook of great Jewish ideas and a guidebook for living Jewishly in the 21st century. Robertal Kwall manages to be both descriptive and perscriptive, charting a path for how Jewish living can thrive in contemporary society. This is not a book for the future; this is a vital book for right now. -- Avi Finegold, Founder, The Jewish Learning Lab