Shanda: A Memoir of Shame & Secrecy

by Letty Cottin Pogrebin

An intimate memoir from a founding editor of Ms. Magazine who grew up in a Jewish immigrant family mired in secrets, haunted by their dread of shame and stigma, determined to hide their every imperfection—and in denial or despair when they couldn’t.

The word “shanda” is defined as shame or disgrace in Yiddish. This book, Shanda, tells the story of three generations of complicated, intense 20th-century Jews for whom the desire to fit in and the fear of public humiliation either drove their aspirations or crushed their spirit.

The book is available in the Park Library and other area libraries.

Enjoy treats and tea before the discussion.

To RSVP or for questions, contact Sasha Huston at shuston@parksyn.org or (216) 371-2244 x155