The Seventh Heaven: Travels Through Jewish Latin America (Pitt Latin American Series)

Discover the rich tapestry of Jewish culture in Latin America with "The Seventh Heaven: Travels Through Jewish Latin America." Renowned essayist Ilan Stavans takes you on a captivating journey across a dozen countries, unearthing the roots of Jewish communities that have flourished since Christopher Columbus's arrival. This critically acclaimed travel book, hailed as the winner of the 2020 Latino Book Awards for Best Travel Book, offers an extraordinary and vivid exploration of a lesser-known aspect of Latin American history.

Stavans's immersive travelogue draws parallels with the renowned explorations of V.S. Naipaul, offering a unique perspective on the Jewish communities in the region. From Buenos Aires, where he delves into the stories of the desaparecidos, to Patagonia, where he uncovers the surprising presence of neo-Nazi groups, Stavans fearlessly ventures into the heart of these vibrant communities.

But this book goes beyond mere exploration. Stavans's journey takes him to Spain, where he reflects on the lasting impact of the Inquisition, and to the American Southwest, where he discovers the hidden world of "secret Jews." In Israel, he witnesses how immigrants from Latin America have shaped the Jewish state. Through it all, Stavans is driven by a search for the elusive "seventh heaven," a metaphorical realm of divine proximity that sheds light on the meaning of life — both in general and as it pertains to Jewish existence.

Immerse yourself in this masterful work that seamlessly weaves personal narratives with historical context. Stavans's quest to find convergence between the personal and the historical will leave you captivated and inspired. So don't miss your chance to embark on this remarkable literary journey. Embrace the diversity, depth, and beauty of Jewish Latin America with "The Seventh Heaven: Travels Through Jewish Latin America."

Get your copy and embark on this extraordinary adventure today!