Abraham Lincoln – by George McGovern

Those who missed Senator McGovern’s talk at Temple will find his treatment of Lincoln’s life most intriguing. Many people are not aware that Lincoln had less than two years of formal education, yet, on his own, not only became a lawyer, but one of the best read American Presidents. This slim (155 pages) volume also deals with Lincoln’s life-long battle with depression, his brilliant political skill in pursuit of a reunited America, and his staunch commitment to emancipation of the black slaves in the United States, who came to refer to him as "Father Abraham."

Friendship & Faith – edited by David Crumm

Forty women from various faiths come together in sharing their personal stories of discrimination, determination, dreams of peace and understanding in our community, and perhaps in our world. Contributing writers include our members, Brenda Rosenberg, creator of the "Reuniting the Children of Abraham" project and Elaine Schonberger, and Rev. Sandra Kay Gordon from our Sister Congregation, Greater New Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church. The brief vignettes make for a powerful learning experience.

No Place Like Home: A Memoir in 39 Apartments – by Brook Berman

Brook Berman, daughter of the late Marilyn Berman, and granddaughter of Ida Lucas, both Temple members, infuses this wrenchingly honest, touching and moving account of her artistic aspirations and ultimate success, with a supple writing style that involves the reader profoundly. Brook’s commitment to her craft in the face of seemingly insuperable obstacles is a lesson to all who dream of a career in the arts that there is no such thing as "an overnight success." I laughed. I cried. I rejoiced.

Never Miss A Beat: An Evocation of The Heart – by Jessie K. Stern

Friends of Jessie and Dr. Sheldon Stern will smile as they delve into the circumstances that brought them together, the blooming of their love, and the tale of their coming to Detroit to bless this community with their presence. We would all do well to remind ourselves to heed Jessie’s admonition, the last line of the book: "My goal for the rest of my life is to practice reminding myself to never miss a beat."