Association of Jewish Librarians
EditEd by RachEl Kamin & chava PinchuK
November/December 2018 Volume VIII, No. 4
Frank, Ben G. A Travel Guide to Jewish Europe. Fourth Edition. Gretna, Louisiana: Pelican Publishing Company, 2018. 656 pp. $19.87. (9781455623570).
A Travel Guide to Jewish Europe is much more than a book that recommends sites of Jewish interest in Europe. It is a comprehensive guide and reference book to the culture, history, politics and life of Jews who live in Europe. Each chapter begins with a clear map of the country discussed and shows the location of cities where Jews live or have lived in the past. Frank then brie y discusses the Jewish history of each city and country. For example, in the chapter on France, he begins his account with the Roman period and ends with the rise of anti-Semitism and terrorism in today’s France. Each chapter includes concise
24 AJL Reviews November/December 2018
Reviews of Non ction Titles for Adults
biographies of notable Jews who lived in a particular city or country. Included is information on Jewish population (past and present), expulsions, pogroms, blood libels, book burnings, and the inquisition. Frank lists kosher restaurants, synagogues of all denominations, museums, and memorial sites. In addition, he recommends Jewish tours and tour guides. Jewish organizations, community activity centers, libraries, cemeteries are also listed, as well as their addresses and phone numbers. At the end of each chapter Frank recommends books for further study. Black and white photographs of both the interior and exterior of synagogues enhance the book. A comprehensive index is included. A Travel Guide to Jewish Europe is highly recommended for all libraries. It is interesting, well written and can be appreciated by patrons who are planning a trip to Europe or patrons who are interested in the life of European Jews.
Ilka Gordon, Beachwood, Ohio
