"Behind You Is The Sea: A Novel" by Susan Muaddi Darraj (Yiddish Book Center 2026: Between Two Worlds)

About this event

Gellman Room - Main Library. During 2026, Richmond Public Library will be hosting programs as part of Between Two Worlds: Exploring Jewish Culture and Religion Through Yiddish Literature, a partnership with the Yiddish Book Center. The fourth book discussion we are hosting will focus on Behind You Is The Sea: A Novel by Susan Muaddi Darraj. An exciting debut novel that gives voice to the diverse residents of a Palestinian American community in Baltimore—from young activists in conflict with their traditional parents to the poor who clean for the rich—lives which intersect across divides of class, generation, and religion. Funny and touching, the novel brings us into the homes and lives of three main families—the Baladis, the Salamehs, and the Ammars—Palestinian immigrants who’ve all found a different welcome in America. Behind You Is the Sea faces stereotypes about Palestinian culture head-on and, shifting perspectives to weave a complex social fabric replete with weddings, funerals, broken hearts, and devastating secrets. Copies of the book are available for participants who register. After registering, you will be contacted by library staff to receive your copy of the book. Participants who can provide their own copy of the books are welcome to register as well. Please note that participation in any Between Two Worlds programs is open to all. People wishing to learn more about Yiddish literature and culture are encouraged to register, regardless of your level of previous knowledge. Through reading high quality translations and participating in facilitated discussions, these stories and histories will be made available to as many people as possible. Participation in other Between Two Worlds programs encouraged, but not required. The Yiddish Book Center’s Public Libraries Program brings Yiddish literature in translation to libraries nationwide, encouraging connections and sparking cross-cultural dialogue. This event is presented as part of the Yiddish Book Center’s Public Libraries…

Description from rvalibrary.libcal.com