Books for Jewish American Heritage Month 2026

May is Jewish American Heritage Month, a great time to talk about books by Jewish authors! You’re welcome to see my previous post of recommendations of Jewish YA authors at https://www.lynnlovegreen.com/post/jewish-american-heritage-month-2024.

Here are two books I enjoyed recently to add to your reading list:

The Bletchley Riddle is a middle grade mystery by Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin with a historical foundation. Lizzie and Jakob have always loved riddles and puzzles, but now they must use their skills to defend their country in World War II. Nineteen-year-old Jakob is a code breaker at the secret Bletchley Park operation. His fearless fourteen-year-old sister Lizzie turns up as she's trying to solve the mystery of their mother's disappearance. Secret agents, mysterious messages, and first love complicate their missions as they unravel the truth and help their homeland. The authors seamlessly weave history and fiction in this fascinating story based mostly on a real mission and people. The fictional characters are wonderful, too, especially the kooky and brilliant Lizzie. The main characters' ages and storyline make it appealing to both middle grade and young adult readers.

It’s a Whole Spiel: Love, Latkes, and Other Jewish Stories is a young adult anthology by and about Jewish Americans edited by Katherine Locke and Laura Silverman. It’s a variety of short stories about many things, from awkward teens finding community to witty romcoms to facing fears after serious trauma. Main character ages are high school teens through college students, some queer, neurodiverse, or with a disability. All are loveable people you want to go on a journey with. This selection of diverse authors will show you slices of Jewish American life, and also how much we all have in common.  

Hope you find a new favorite author--happy reading!