Why I am a Zionist by Gil Troy, Bronfman Jewish Education Centre, 2006. 257 pages.

In his fascinating book “Why I am a Zionist” Gil Troy a professor of History at McGill University, redefines the term "Zionist" for a new generation. This is the third edition of the book Troy initially wrote in 2002, in answer to virulent attacks on the State of Israel's right to exist in the wake of world-wide terrorism.

The book begins with a reprinted article Troy wrote in the Montreal Gazette celebrating Israel’s 53rd anniversary. The column entitled “I am a Zionist: A Twenty-First Century Manifesto” is an uplifting affirmation of Troy's belief in the State of Israel. The negative response to his article showed that our enemies regard Zionism as an act of aggression.

In this revised and updated edition, Troy provides new answers to the attacks on Zionism. Troy offers reasons to be a proud and active Zionist in the 21st century. In the newly written section, Troy details Jewish identity building in action. This includes how to fight anti-Semitism on and off campus, a guideline for activism, and the need to continue celebrating Israel. As a college professor Troy is often exposed to this controversy on campus. From these discussions he has developed the concept of the “New Anti-Semitism”.

The new section of the book offers practical application to the historical and social information of the first sections . From explaining the terms of the modern political battleground, Troy goes on to discuss new and creative ways to combat the hatred. One way, says Troy, is to “plead guilty” to the "negative" charges and explain them in better terms. For example: when accused of being a “propagandist” for American Democracy Troy says; “I plead guilty to viewing worthy ideals in proper perspective.” Troy’s level headed and intellectual responses provide arguments geared towards promoting an enlightened understanding of Zionism and Judaism at large.

With detailed maps, a glossary and and index “Why I am a Zionist,” is well based look into who we are as Jews. Professor Troy succeeds in offering an uplifting and positive view as to where we are today, and how our rich Jewish history can help us plot a better course for the future.

About the Author:

Gil Troy is Professor of History at McGill University in Montreal. He received his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in History from Harvard University.Troy's column The Ivory Tower, appears monthly in New York's The Forward. He has also published articles recently in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post and the New York Post. Troy is also the chairman of the Montreal birthright israel committee.

This book is available at:
Gur Arieh Bookstore, Yoel Solomon St 8, Jerusalem
Tel: 02-625-7486. Fax: 02-625-4265

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