News & Events

Book Club: Washing the Dead by Michelle Brafman

by Josie Zeman

washing-the-dead-prospect-park-books

Shomrei Book Club

We had a fascinating discussion of The Man in the White Sharkskin Suit at our April Book Club meeting, with added input from Marc Chalom, whose family had a similar experience when life in Egypt became untenable for Jews.

The May selection is Washing the Dead by Michelle Brafman, a story about three generations of women who perform this sacred duty. The book also focuses on relationships between mothers and daughters as the generations accept this responsibility under different circumstances.

We will meet on Monday, May 9, 7:30pm at Congregation Shomrei Emunah

Look forward to seeing you then.

Josie Zeman

All are welcome to join us. Contact Josie Zeman at  for more information if you are interested.

Buy the Book

Preview the book online

  • Josie Zeman

    Josie Zeman joined Shomrei in 2007 (not sure) shortly after moving to Montclair to find a compatible community in retirement. She volunteers to do public relations outreach for Shomrei, helps in the office, and the kitchen, organizes sessions of the monthly Book Club, takes classes with the rabbi to learn all the things about Judaism that she never knew growing up in a Reform congregation in the South. She is proud to be a member of this dynamic synagogue!

    View all posts