Blog
Ferdinand and Isabella: Exploring the Catholic Monarchs’ Pivotal Role in History
The reign of Ferdinand and Isabella forever altered world history. Beyond Columbus' famed voyage, they launched the Granada War and issued the Alhambra Decree, reshaping Spain's religious landscape. Learn more about their story and its impact on a family's pivotal choice in our novel, South of Sepharad.
South of Sepharad Audio Excerpt
Please enjoy this audio excerpt from Chapter 3 of South of Sepharad by Eric Z. Weintraub. In it, Vidal, the patriarch of a Jewish family living in Granada shortly after it has been conquered by the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, learns from his son-in-law about the Alhambra Decree. The Decree orders that all Jews must convert to Catholicism or permanently leave their homes to resettle somewhere outside of the Spanish Kingdoms. Vidal is shocked by the by the news and suddenly realizes his family is in peril.
How Jewish Customs and Traditions Evolved: From 1492 to Today
In "How Jewish Customs and Traditions Evolved – From 1492 to Today," Eric Z. Weintraub explores the surprising modernity of some Jewish practices. He reveals that simple wooden coffins, extravagant b'nai mitzvahs, wedding chuppahs, the hora dance, and even beliefs about the afterlife have evolved significantly since 1492. Using his novel "South of Sepharad" as a reference, Weintraub illustrates how these customs have changed, noting that many traditions we see today were not practiced in medieval Spain.
Best New Historical Fiction - March 2024
Calling all historical fiction lovers! Check out our list of the best new historical novels coming out this March!
Balancing Act: Writing Authentic Historical Fiction Without Alienating Readers
Ever wondered how to transport readers back in time without leaving them lost in translation? Discover the secret to striking the perfect balance between authenticity and readability, ensuring your story enchants rather than alienates. Join us as we unravel this intricate balancing act!
Meet the Intern: Madelyn Valento
Madelyn Valento is an intern at HTF this semester while she completes her Editing and Publishing Certificate at UMN – Twin Cities. She hopes to work in the literary industry in some capacity after graduation in a year. In her free time she can be found reading, writing, playing video games, or hanging out with her dog, Duey, and twin brother, Mario.
Turning History Into Fiction: Bringing the 1492 Expulsion of the Jews from Spain to Life
In "Turning History Into Fiction," Eric Z. Weintraub shares his journey of transforming the 1492 Expulsion of the Jews from Spain into a novel. Struck by the lack of personal stories, he delved into history books and visited Granada to capture the essence of the time. His book, "South of Sepharad," aims to illuminate the human experiences lost to history, giving life to the expelled Jews' thoughts, fears, and desires through the art of storytelling.
From Expulsion to Empathy: Learning from the Past in South of Sepharad
Step back to 1492 with "South of Sepharad" by Eric Z. Weintraub, where the poignant tale of a Sephardic Jewish family unfolds amidst the turmoil of the Alhambra Decree. This narrative captures the essence of their struggle, resilience, and the broader context of Jewish persecution throughout history. Uncover the layers of this often overshadowed chapter, as we explore the impact of forced exiles on a community's spirit and identity.
From Dream to Reality: An Author’s Journey by Eric Z. Weintraub
Eric Z. Weintraub, author of South of Sepharad, shares his journey of transforming a powerful historical moment into a compelling historical novel. Learn how he overcame self-doubt, delved into meticulous research, and navigated the challenges of writing and revising a debut novel—all while balancing life's demands. This inspiring story reveals the resilience needed to bring South of Sepharad from an idea to a published reality.
Update on the Reclaiming Mni Sota Indigenous Writers Grant: New Direction and Continued Commitment
This is the final update on the Reclaiming Mni Sota Indigenous Writers Grant. After an unexpected turn of events, we're redirecting our efforts to make a meaningful impact. Curious about where the journey has led us? Read the full statement to discover our next steps.
A More Complete View of History: The other side of WWII - A guest blog post by Aubrey Taylor
Discover the untold stories of WWII in this captivating guest blog post by author Aubrey Taylor. In it, Taylor writes about challenging common perceptions and delving into the German perspective of the war. Taylor's three-year journey of research reveals a complex narrative beyond Hollywood's portrayal, offering a fresh look at history's most infamous conflict. Click to explore the shades of truth in this thought-provoking piece.
Best New Historical Fiction – February 2024
Looking for some great new historical fiction reads? Look no further! We’ve got a list of the five best new historical fiction novels titles coming out in February!
In the Shadow of The Alhambra: The Fate of Vidal and his Family in South of Sepharad
Discover the captivating tale of Vidal, a Jewish physician in 1492 Granada, whose life is forever altered by the shadows of the Alhambra Palace. As royal decrees echo from its walls, Vidal faces an ultimatum that challenges his faith and future. Uncover how this majestic palace bears witness to history's turning points and personal struggles in Eric Z. Weintraub’s novel, "South of Sepharad." Witness the intertwining of a family's fate with the grandeur and gravity of the Alhambra.
Writing Historical Fiction: Tall Tales or the Straight Scoop?
Discover how an author balances truth and fiction to bring to life an ordinary family's extraordinary tale, and grapples with the challenge of portraying history through a novelist's lens. Will the blend of fact and imagination capture the essence of the era? Join author David K. Wessel to explore the delicate dance between historical accuracy and storytelling magic.
Cover Reveal! A Hopeless Dawn by Jill George
History Through Fiction is proud to partner with historical novelist Jill George to share the cover of her upcoming release, A Hopeless Dawn.
What I Didn’t Expect from the Spanish Inquisition
Discover the shocking truths behind the Spanish Inquisition that defy common myths. Eric Z. Weintraub's deep dive into history reveals a complex narrative far removed from the exaggerated tales of horror we've been told. Read more to uncover what really happened during one of history's most infamous periods.
Denim-inspired Tales – A Historian's Journey from Levi's Archives to Western Historical Fiction
Discover the origins of Lynn Downey’s award-winning western novel series. As a historian for Levi Strauss & Co., Downey unearthed a treasure trove of inspiration from blue jeans to dude ranches. Check out her guest blog post to learn more about her journey through history, mystery, and the magic of storytelling.
The Alhambra Decree of 1492: Exploring the Forced Exodus in ‘South of Sepharad’
In 1492, Isabella and Ferdinand issued the Alhambra Decree, an edict requiring the exile or conversion of all Jews from Spain. Many Jews faced a grim choice: abandon their beliefs or their homes. Eric Weintraub's novel captures this struggle through Vidal, a Jewish physician facing exile or conversion.
Atrocity and Agency – The Indigenous Impact on American History
In Anthony Earth's review of Ned Blackhawk's The Rediscovery of America: Native Peoples and the Unmaking of U.S. History, he explores how Blackhawk challenges traditional narratives about America's founding. The book centers on the significant role indigenous populations played in shaping the nation, highlighting their agency rather than portraying them as passive victims. Check out the full review on our blog.
Reclaiming Mni Sota Indigenous Writers Grant - Monthly Donation Update (December)
From June through December, History Through Fiction and author Colin Mustful are fundraising for the Reclaiming Mni Sota Indigenous Writers Grant, a literary diversity initiative to raise $10,000 for one Indigenous Writer from Minnesota. Learn more and check up on our progress with this monthly update!