The author of The Chosen,The Promise, My Name is Asher Lev and other modern classics discusses his writing and the responsibility he feels towards his readers. -20 mins

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Topics for classroom discussion and assignments:

• Chaim  Potok tells the audience about two books he read that changed his life. Discuss why these books were so important to Dr. Potok, and then write an essay about a book that has impacted your own life.

• Artists use their paintings to reflect the mood of people in their country — and their own feelings. Choose a famous artist, learn about the artist’s background, and explore how the artist’s work expresses his or her own life and feelings.

• Dr. Potok says that our destiny is in our own hands.  He believes we must keep our faith even when confronted with atrocities. He says we are nature’s “point” people.  We create meaning in the universe.  Discuss these thoughts with the class and then write an essay about them.

• Dr. Potok says we probably know little of our parents’ history. Interview your parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles and begin your own written family history. Include pictures if you can and save for the future.

• Dr. Potok likes to write about different cultures clashing in one family. Find and discuss elements of this in his books.

Teachers and librarians, submit your own topics: