Author talks about her new book, ‘Jews of Florida’

The book display at the Jan. 16 program

Approximately 65 people attended a presentation by Jewish historian Marcia Jo Zerivitz of St. Pete Beach, discussing her newly released book “Jews of Florida,” which tells the comprehensive history of Jews in the state.

Sponsored by the Jewish Federation of Florida’s Gulf Coast, the program was held Jan. 16 at the Dunedin Fine Art Center.

“We thought this would be the perfect way to promote and celebrate Florida Jewish History Month,” Federation campaign and communications associate Lucé Piccin said.

Zerivitz helped initiate legislation for both Florida Jewish History Month each January and Jewish American Heritage Month each May to increase awareness about the roles Jews have played throughout the state and nation’s history.

Founder of the Florida Jewish Museum in Miami Beach, which has now become affiliated with Florida International University, Zerivitz’s other books include “Jews of Tampa.” That book was co-authored with Dr. Rob Norman.

The 400-plus page “Jews of Florida” includes sections on early Jewish settlers, Jews in various industries, religious life and anti-Semitism. The book is on sale at retailers including Target, Amazon and Barnes & Noble.