Jonathan Goldstein Livres

The Jewish communities of East and Southeast Asia display an impressive diversity. Jonathan Goldstein’s book covers the period from 1750 and focuses on seven of the area’s largest cities and trading emporia: Singapore, Manila, Taipei, Harbin, Shanghai, Rangoon, and Surabaya. The book isolates five factors which contributed to the formation of transnational, multiethnic, and multicultural identity: memory, colonialism, regional nationalism, socialism, and Zionism. It emphasizes those factors which preserved specifically Judaic aspects of identity. Drawing extensively on interviews conducted in all seven cities as well as governmental, institutional, commercial, and personal archives, censuses, and cemetery data, the book provides overviews of communal life and intimate portraits of leading individuals and families. Jews were engaged in everything from business and finance to revolutionary activity. Some collaborated with the Japanese while others confronted them on the battlefield. The book attempts to treat fully and fairly the wide spectrum of Jewish experience ranging from that of the ultra-Orthodox to the completely secular.

The book explores the belief systems of ancient civilizations like the Babylonians and Israelites, emphasizing their conviction that their deity was the strongest among all. This unwavering faith influenced their decisions, especially in warfare, often leading to disastrous outcomes. When faced with defeat, these nations grappled with the troubling question of divine protection and the reasons behind their misfortunes. The narrative examines the complexities of faith, national identity, and the psychological impact of perceived divine failure in times of crisis.

"I'll Seize the Day Tomorrow" follows Jonathan Goldstein's humorous quest for truth as he approaches forty. Through funny anecdotes, he explores profound questions about life, culture, and personal wisdom, with insights from friends and family, all while navigating the ups and downs of his last year in his thirties.

The narrative explores the inner turmoil of Josh, a young man grappling with his father's apathy while navigating his own intense desires. Through a unique lens, the story delves into themes of confusion and longing, presenting a vivid portrayal of a young adult's struggles in a complex emotional landscape. Goldstein's debut offers an insightful and original perspective on the challenges of growing up and understanding one's place in the world.

In the Midwest, wetlands can be seen as a nuisance to farmers as they can severely increase production costs. Wetlands are however are a major part of ecology for migratory waterfowl and drainage of these wetlands could have dire consequences on the population of waterfowl as well as other wildlife. Originally published in 1971, this report attempts to break down the economic factors of competition for wetlands in Minnesota and surrounding areas in a policy-relevant way and to suggest new policy alternatives. This title will be of interest to students of Environmental Studies.