Israel: A Simple Guide to the Most Misunderstood Country on Earth by Noa Tishby.

This is one of the most informative, remarkable, and interesting books about Israel that I have ever read. Granted, I am not the most sophisticated person about the history of the Jews throughout all time nor even do I claim to know all the players in conflicts since the formation of Israel as an independent country. The author of this book does provide an in-depth knowledge and insight into the history, the key players, and the clash of cultures. She also clarifies the discrimination against the Jews and against Israel not only dating back to ancient times, but before and after the Holocaust. One only has to appreciate the number of Arabs living in Israel now with full citizenship and even being represented in the Israeli parliament the Knesset and yet the continued BDS movement– Boycott, Divest, and Sanction Israel coming from the overwhelming majority of the Arab world that continually is trying to destroy Israel and the Jews.

The author, aside from being an outstanding writer, has been an entertainer and even a comedian. She writes with a lively style and backs up everything with historical facts.

I recommend very strongly that everyone who has an interest in the history of Israel (and hopefully even though those who have been oblivious to the history of the Jews and Israel) should read this book. The insight and clarity you will have will help make the world a better place.

KNOW MY NAME by Chanel Miller

A young woman goes to a party on the Stanford University campus and gets drunk and passes out at the party. While unconscious she is sexually assaulted and raped in a nearby park. Two witnesses identify the guy who did it and there is eventually a trial.

The book gives us a graphic description and insight into the buildup to the courtroom scene, interactions with the district attorney, the story of the perpetrator, all the motions, appeals, background, etc. It is written with great insight, magnificent descriptions, and understandable emotions.

The book is a page turner as we go through the dramatic courtroom scenes, the cross examinations, the plan of the defense attorney, and the numerous characters. Because the author is skillful and insightful, we are able to relive her experience. From the waking up in the hospital, the police interrogations, the pretrial, the trial, cross examination, the witnesses, but most important she gives us a tremendous insight into her own emotions and gut feelings.

You don’t need to just have my recommendation. The book is already a best seller and has been receiving wide acclaim.