A Jew in Ramallah and Other Essays - (Baraka Nonfiction) by Carla Blank (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

This wide-ranging collection of essays explores various milestones and landmarks of American music, theatre, dance--and life in general. From Elvis Presley to Kabuki, from dance to destruction, Blank dissects how culture, society and politics have intersected--sometimes for the better, often not. The title essay, written after the events of October 7, 2023, looks back on a three-month residency in Ramallah in 2013 and how this insight and experience has shaped Blank's understanding of both art and conflict. Blank's long career as a working artist in multiple sectors lends this collection a unique authority and searing insight that is both refreshing and much needed. In addition, in an exclusive interview with her partner Ishmael Reed, Blank explains how a curious young Jewish woman from Pittsburgh developed into a committed and eloquent public intellectual.

Review Quotes

"A stimulating, eclectic collection of essays. Those interested in the post-World War II counterculture and avant-garde art scene will appreciate this insider's account that blends memoir with intellectually rigorous commentary."--Kirkus Reviews

"An effective, valuable historical reference work. A worthwhile acquisition for academic, public, and high school libraries." --Library Journal On Bigotry on Broadway

"Blank and Reed offer an incisive, critical take on Broadway's past and present; discuss an alternative vision that incorporates the perspectives missing from Broadway; and look toward a more inclusive future. A book for all readers interested in the history of Broadway musicals, theater criticism, and the role of whiteness in Broadway's misrepresentations." --Library Journal On Storming the Old Boys' Citadel: Pioneer Women Architects of 19th Century North America

"Books like this one are vital in highlighting what our history notes have left out. They remind us to redefine our views and question our records. If we need to redefine the history of architecture today, let it include women." --Montreal Review of Books

"Carla Blank has put together such an interesting collection of essays on such varied topics that it was hard for me to put it down once I started reading." --John N. Roberts, Author of Changing the Commons: Stories About Placemaking

"A Jew in Ramallah and Other Essays is a wonderful and necessary tapestry of incisive and brilliant essays weaving art, culture, and politics reflecting the remarkable career of an artistic polymath. As authoritarians seek to rewrite history, stamp out dissent, and erase the stories and contributions of women and people of color, Carla Blank's essays offer a vision that reveal the rewards of curiosity, self-reflection, and empathy." --Wajahat Ali, Columnist, playwright, public speaker, author

About the Author

Carla Blank has distinguished herself as a dancer, choreographer, author, director, dramaturge, teacher, editor, journalist, and Jazz musician (violinist). Author or editor of five books, she has collaborated with choreographers such as Robert Wilson and Suzushi Hanayagi. She has directed plays and multimedia performances the United States, China, and West Bank Palestinian cities. Her articles have appeared in publications including The Wall Street Journal, the San Francisco Chronicle, and El Paï s (Spain). Carla Blank lives in Oakland.