Congregation B’nai Zion will host a community event to celebrate the publication of Arlo Haskell’s new book, The Jews of Key West: Smugglers, Cigar Makers, & Revolutionaries (1823-1969), on Sunday, December 10. Haskell will read from the book and discuss his research beginning at 11:00 am in the sanctuary of the synagogue at 750 United St., followed by brunch, conversation, and a book signing in the social hall. Admission is free, although donations to B’nai Zion are welcome.

Haskell’s book chronicles the oldest Jewish community in South Florida and has earned praise as a groundbreaking addition to regional and Jewish histories. Rabbi Lance J. Sussman, an expert on American Jewish history, praises Haskell’s “deep research and enormous forensic effort,” and explains, “this book fills a gap in the literature of the American Jewish experience.” Acclaimed historian Robert D. Richardson says, “Think you know Key West? Think again.”

Haskell’s book grew out of an earlier B’nai Zion initiative, spearheaded by Sugarloaf Key resident Susie Savitch, to document the early history of Jews in Key West. “This book never could have happened without Susie,” says Haskell. “Her research laid the cornerstone for my own work. Her vision and determination inspired dozens of community members to sponsor years of investigative work. It’s a thrill for me to bring this book back to B’nai Zion, where it all began.”

Copies of The Jews of Key West will be for sale at the event for $24.00, with 50% of all proceeds going to the synagogue.