Deeply knowing, highly entertaining, and just a little bit irreverent, The Newish Jewish Encyclopedia is an unputdownable encyclopedia of all things Jewish and Jew-ish covering culture, religion, history, habits, language, and more. Readers will refresh their knowledge of the Patriarchs and Matriarchs, the artistry of Barbra Streisand, the significance of the Oslo Accords, the meaning of words like balaboosta, balagan, bashert, and bageling. Understand all the major and minor holidays. Learn how the Jews invented Hollywood. Remind themselves why they need to read Hannah Arendt, watch Seinfeld, listen to Leonard Cohen. Even discover the secret of happiness (see “Latkes”). Join two of the authors, Stephanie Butnick and Liel Leibovitz, for the newish-Jewish story behind this concise compendium. Reception and book signing follow the program.

Ticket Info: $15 general; $12 seniors; $10 CJH/Partner members, students at encyclopedia.bpt.me or 800-838-3006; $18 at the door