The Column
“Shmoozing With the Word Mavens”
Drawing on their JPS Dictionary of Jewish Words (A JPS Guide, 2006) and their popular Book Talks, Joyce Eisenberg and Ellen Scolnic write an informative and entertaining newspaper column entitled “Shmoozing With the Word Mavens.” The column uses words from their dictionary as a jumping off point to focus on unique, lesser known aspects of many Jewish traditions.
Their holiday-related columns are syndicated by the Jewish Telegraphic Agency and appear in Jewish newspapers around the country. Click here to read their column in the newpaper.
Other columns are geared to a secular audience to educate non-Jewish readers about aspects of Jewish life they may encounter living in a diverse community.
Topics include:- Machetumin: Meet the in-laws.
- Shivah: Jewish customs of the condolence call.
- Kabbalah: Beyond the red string.
- Bedeken: The biblical roots of the custom of veiling the bride.
New columns are being written all the time. Features (First North American Rights) and reprints are available. For specific column packages and rates, contact The Word Mavens for details.