‘Jerusalem Beach’ by Iddo Gefen Is Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature Finalist

Jerusalem Beach, the short story collection by Iddo Gefen, translated by Daniella Zamir (Astra House, August 2021), is one of four fiction finalists for the 2023 Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature.

"When you read Gefen’s stories," I wrote in my review of his book, "with their diverse characters, and cross-genre themes of memories and dreams, you never know what you’re going to get. But one thing you do know. Each story is going to be very enjoyable to read."

The annual Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature "recognizes the unique role of contemporary writers in the examination and transmission of the Jewish experience. The $100,000 prize is presented to an emerging writer who demonstrates the potential for continued contribution to the world of Jewish literature."

Jerusalem Beach is certainly worthy of this prestigious prize and congratulations to Iddo Gefen for this well-deserved recognition!

A previous winner of the Sami Rohr prize was Ayelet Tsabari for her short story collection The Best Place on Earth in 2015.