Author Judy Petsonk to Speak About Ancient Queen of the Jews

Judy Petsonk, author,
will discuss her novel, Queen of the Jews,
on Sunday, January 26, from 9:30
to 10:30 a.m. at Congregation Beth Israel in Scotch Plains. The event is open
to the community.

Published in March 2012, Queen of the Jews tells the story of the
Jewish queen who ruled over what is now modern-day Israel more than 2,000 years
ago.  This Jewish ruler was known in the
Hellenistic world as Salome Alexandra and was called Queen Shalom‐Zion by the Jews because she brought peace to the land of Judea after
decades of violence.

"The author's novel on Queen Shalom-Zion (or Salome Alexandra) is a
fascinating work of historical fiction, and illuminates the life of an
important, yet little-studied figure in Jewish history," said Gary
Goldner, co-chair of Congregation Beth Israel’s Adult Education committee,
sponsor of the event. 

According to Petsonk, Queen Shalom-Zion, although mostly forgotten, held
beliefs that have influenced the teachings of Judaism, Christianity and Islam
to this day.

The event costs
$10 per person.  Ms. Petsonk will sign
copies of her book, which will be available for purchase. 

Congregation Beth
Israel is located at 18 Shalom Way, Scotch Plains, New Jersey (at the corner of
Martine Avenue).  For more information,
call the synagogue office at (908) 889-1830.