These are delightful, informative and altogether fascinating stories. Tokayer and Rodman have filled an important gap in Jewish history.” – Richard Zoglin, author and Time Magazine theater critic
“This fine, surprising addition to the history of the Jewish people awakens readers from the Eurocentric and Near East visions of Jewish culture and influence…the stories are wonderfully varied…the authors evidence their great passion for their subject. I am hopeful that this volume reaches every Jewish library and library of Far East history.” – Philip K. Jason, contributor, Jewish Book World
Pepper, Silk & Ivory: Amazing Stories about Jews and the Far East by Rabbi Marvin Tokayer and Dr. Ellen Rodman is a rich and provocative book about the lost stories of Jews and the Far East. The narratives are interesting and detailed …an important book today…it is truly marvelous.” – Dr. Mehnaz M. Afridi, Director of the Manhattan College Holocaust, Genocide and Interfaith Education Center and Assistant Professor of Religious Studies, Manhattan College
“This is a fascinating, superbly-researched book of footnote characters, incidents and events which deftly fills in wide gaps in history. Who knew?” – Jeffrey Lyons, Lyons Den Radio
“…informed, informative, unique and thoroughly ‘reader friendly,’ Pepper, Silk & Ivory: Amazing Stories about Jews and the Far East is an uncommon and treasured volume of memorable and surprising accomplishments by memorable people…a fascinating and compelling read from beginning to end.” – Midwest Book Review
“The book is a beauty. The design of the cover and the power of the title convey elegance and mystery. And that is even before you open the book! This is such a wonderful contribution to Judaica.” – Charlotte Glass, reader, Chicago
“This is a book that I could not put down; I was mesmerized by the amazing stories showing the role Jews played in all walks of life in the Far East…It is meticulously researched and is a must read…” – Teddy Piastunovich, The Bulletin (published in Tel Aviv by the Association of Former Residents of China)
“[This book] is absolutely wonderful and educational…these stories are a collection of wonderfully written characters…this is one of the best books I’ve ever read and the knowledge I’ve gained is immeasurable and priceless.” – Reader in Michigan, review on Amazon.com
“This is a wonderful book…I treasure it…I am so excited about the book that I contacted our local public school librarian, community college librarian, and Jewish Library librarian and suggested purchasing the book. They did.” – Sophie in Oregon, review on Amazon.com
“This book is so well researched, its 23 individual chapter stories kept my jaw open and my (electronic) highlighter going on almost every page…this book is highly recommended.” – Mo, review on Amazon.com
“They are great stories of Jews who lived in the Far East. Each chapter was as interesting as the next.” – Jeffrey, review on Amazon.com
“Very interesting and informative.” – Nanette, review on Amazon.com
“This fascinating and entertaining book offers information that I have never read about before. Very interesting and easy to read. I can see each chapter as a movie. Highly recommended.” – Charlene, review on Amazon.com
“An entertaining, must read, compilation of factual stories showing the historical and positive influence that Jews have had in the Far East. It is a book written not for Jews alone but for all…It is [a] well written, easily understood book with information …you could not find in other publications…This is a book that will surprise you…” – Barry Kaufman, reader from Bloomfield, Michigan
“The stories are fascinating. The book is a fast and easy read, can be picked up at any point, and is very interesting!” –Deborah, review on Amazon.com
“Loved it! [I] would love to tour some of those historic sites…” – customer on Amazon. com
“I loved it!” – AG84, review on Amazon.com
“Recommended. Very informative.” – Devora, review on Amazon.com
“This is a delightful series of vignettes about Jews in Asia…Don’t miss this book; it is a treasure.” – Jaime, review on Amazon.com
“Well written…very informative! Time well spent!” – Bonnie, review on Amazon.com
“Great vignettes about personages, and very informative about something that I knew nothing about, even though I spent 21/2 years living in Hong Kong. Well done.” – Mark, review on Amazon.com
“This book is so well researched, its 23 individual chapter stories kept my jaw open and my (electronic) highlighter going on almost every page…this book is highly recommended.” – Mo, review on Amazon.com
“…lively work of nonfiction with broad appeal. Firsthand experience, extensive research and deft storytelling…I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging history lesson…a stand-out…” – Kentucky Quacker, review on Amazon.com