Diane Ashton publishes new book, Hanukkah in America

Congratulations are in order for Dr. Dianne Ashton, Philosophy & Religion Studies, for the publication of her most recent book, Hanukkah in America (New York University Press, October 2013). Her book explores how the "American Jews have been transforming the ancient holiday of Hanukkah from a simple occasion into something grand. Each year, as they retell its story and enact its customs, they bring their ever-changing perspectives and desires to its celebration…Hanukkah in America reveals how an almost forgotten festival became the most visible of American Jewish holidays." ¹

Dr. Ashton's areas of scholarly research include American Judaism as well as women and Judaism. Her book publications include Rebecca Gratz: Women and Judaism in Antebellum America (Wayne State University Press,1998); Jewish Life in Pennsylvania (Pennsylvania Historical Association, 1998); and Four Centuries of Jewish Women's Spirituality (Beacon Press, 1992; revised 2009), co-edited with Ellen Umansky. She is currently editor of the scholarly journal, American Jewish History.

¹Description adapted from the Barnes & Noble website, www.bn.com

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