Global Travel Authors

04/26/2026

Please join us for Irene Shaland’s free Zoom lecture on April 29th

Virtual Event Hosted by New City Library, New York

Date and Time: April 29th at 7:00 PM EST, USA

Revisiting Scandinavia Post-October 7th

Join Irene Shaland, for a meaningful virtual journey through Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. While known for stunning fjords and modern design, these nations hold a wealth of compelling, often hidden, Jewish stories that resonate deeply with our shared heritage.

This is a chance to connect with the past and learn about the disturbing present: We will delve into the vibrant Jewish communities that once thrived in the region, examine the role each nation played during the Holocaust, and gain insight into contemporary Jewish life in Scandinavia. This exclusive presentation offers a unique and personal window into the rich tapestry of Scandinavia, seen through a distinctly Jewish lens.

This event is free but registration is required: https://newcity.librarycalendar.com/event/rediscovering-scandinavia-post-october-7th-through-eyes-jewish-traveler-73744

About the Presenter

Irene Shaland is an internationally published art and travel writer and educator, with 7 books and over 30 magazine articles published in the US, Canada, and the UK. She is a contributing author and lecturer at academic institutions such as the Siegal College of Jewish Studies and Touro Law School in New York, and Center for Jewish History Research, as well as museums and cultural institutions, such as Museum of Jewish Heritage in New York, Museum of Jewish Heritage in Cleveland, Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, BZD, Qesher, and other communal organizations focusing on Jewish history.

Learn about Irene Shaland's books on the subject: https://amzn.to/3DM6rDk

03/16/2026

It's Official: Jackie the Penguin Is Going to Australia!

Pack your curiosity — Jackie the Penguin is heading to Australia, and this adventure is anything but ordinary. With a hand-drawn wish list tucked under one wing, Jackie dreams of looking into the eyes of four remarkable animals found nowhere else on Earth: the speedy emu, the mysterious platypus, the powerful kangaroo, and the sleepy koala. But checking off this list won’t be easy. Each animal has its own secrets, surprises, and challenges waiting to be discovered.

As Jackie travels across forests, rivers, grasslands, and eucalyptus groves, young readers uncover playful animal facts woven into the story. Why does a platypus have a bill like a duck? How high can a kangaroo leap? What makes a koala’s day so… slow? Every page invites kids to wonder, observe, and learn.

Perfect for families who love exploring together, this book blends adventure with real science in a way that sparks questions long after the last page. Dive in and see which animal Jackie meets first — and whether that wish list will be completed after all.

Check out the paperback and eBook editions:
Paperback edition: https://amzn.to/4bsjl6E
eBook Edition: https://amzn.to/3N7HZ4B

Pack your curiosity — Jackie the Penguin is heading to Australia, and this adventure is anything but ordinary. With a hand-drawn wish list tucked under one wing, Jackie dreams of looking into the eyes of four remarkable animals found nowhere else on Earth: the speedy emu, the mysterious platypus,....

01/19/2026

Upcoming Virtual Lecture: How the Jews of Iberia Changed the Course of World History

Join Qesher for an extraordinary virtual journey into Portugal's largely unknown, yet utterly fascinating, Jewish history. Acclaimed art and travel writer Irene Shaland, an internationally published historian and author, will transport you through time, from Roman and Visigoth eras to the brilliant Age of Discoveries, and right up to today's blossoming community. Discover the resilient spirit and secret traditions that survived centuries of Inquisition and persecution, making Portugal a unique safe haven during World War II.

Would you like to know more about the specific dates and times for this virtual event, or perhaps details about Irene Shaland's books on the topic?

Date: Thursday, January 29 - 3 pm Eastern Time
Duration: 65-75 minutes for presentation, 90 minutes total with Q&A

Follow the link for ticket information: https://www.qesher.com/jewish-portugal/

About the Presenter

Irene Shaland is an internationally published art and travel writer and educator, with 7 books and over 30 magazine articles published in the US, Canada, and the UK. She is a contributing author and lecturer at academic institutions such as the Siegal College of Jewish Studies and Touro Law School in New York, and Center for Jewish History Research, as well as museums and cultural institutions, such as Museum of Jewish Heritage in Cleveland and New York, Society for Crypto-Judaic Studies, BZD, Qesher, and other communal organizations focusing on Jewish history.

Learn about Irene Shaland's books on the subject: https://amzn.to/3DM6rDk

12/17/2025

This Hanukkah, give the gift of discovery with Irene Shaland’s captivating books, perfect for anyone passionate about Jewish history and global exploration.

From the award-winning The Dao of Being Jewish and Other Stories, which uncovers tales of the Jewish Diaspora across ten countries, to her specialized travel series including guides to Malta and Corsica and her latest 2025 release of Porto and Northern Portugal, Shaland’s work serves as both a scholarly resource and an inspiring travel companion.

Replete with stunning photography by Alex Shaland and deep, little known historical insights, these books offer a meaningful way to celebrate heritage and the enduring spirit of Jewish resilience worldwide.

While printed editions might take a few days to arrive, digital editions are delivered instantly upon completion of the gift order at Amazon.

Irene Shaland’s books about Jewish history:

1. "The Dao of Being Jewish and Other Stories: Tales of Jewish Diaspora, Persecution, the Holocaust and Rebirth in Europe, Africa, and Asia"
https://amzn.to/2T1u5kK

2. "Shaland's Jewish Travel Guide to Malta and Corsica: A Trusted Travel Companion for the Jewish History Explorer"
https://amzn.to/3nfjH9s

3. "Shaland's Lisbon: An Illustrated Guide to Jewish History and Sites in and around Lisbon"
https://amzn.to/4awMblb

4. "Shaland's Évora & Alentejo: An Illustrated Guide to Jewish History and Sites in the Portuguese Region of Alentejo and Its Capital Évora"
https://amzn.to/3VqmFs6

5. "Shaland's Porto & Northern Portugal: An Illustrated Guide to Jewish History and Sites in Northern Portugal, Its Capital Porto, and Select Sites in Central Portugal
https://amzn.to/45jzRog

Just click on the links above to find out more about each book.
Happy reading!

Irene Shaland

11/25/2025

Review of "Suburbanites on Safari: True Stories About My First Encounter with African Wild Animals"
Link to book: https://amzn.to/3hzY79h

By: CB, Amazon reader

★★★★★ A Captivating, Exhilarating Adventure

“I was sitting right in front of him and well within the reach of his gigantic trunk. While raising his trunk, the bull elephant also had to raise his head, so the tips of his tusks were pointing straight at the lens of my camera.” (p. 72)

Suburbanites on Safari tells the wildly fun and informative tale of an adventure, as told by two travelers from the suburbs. It’s the kind of book that pulls you into an adventure and makes you laugh the whole way. By the end, you feel as though you’ve been trekking through the African savanna yourself - and have learned more about the wildlife you’ve probably seen in shows and pictures before like never before.

The book is divided into chapters that mostly focus on different animals living in the savanna. You’ll meet animals like lions and elephants (and try to find the elusive leopard) and see them in their own element.

Other chapters explain the logistics of a safari, such as vehicles, lodgings, and the essential safari rules, so you’d be well-informed if you’re planning your own trip. But even if you have no plans to travel on a safari, the book is well worth the read for Alex’s flowing writing style, full of humor and helpful tidbits, and for the many beautiful photographs found throughout its pages.

It reads casually in the best way, as if you were both having a conversation. The photos of the lions and birds are particularly stunning! Suburbanites on Safari is wonderful to read on its own, but could also be fun for a book club or reading with a friend. It’s the kind of story you want to keep going, and want to talk about for a while after.

Check this book out: https://amzn.to/3hzY79h

11/14/2025

Ready for a wild adventure with your little explorers? “Jackie the Penguin Goes to India” is the perfect gift for curious kids—and the grownups who love reading with them!

Looking for a children’s book that’s educational, adventurous, and absolutely adorable? Meet Jackie the Penguin, the intrepid traveler who’s off to India in search of the elusive Bengal tiger! In this fourth installment of the Adventures of Jackie the Penguin series by author and travel photographer Alex Shaland, young readers will journey through India’s lush wildlife reserves—all through the eyes of a lovable penguin.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, or librarian, this book is a must-have for your child’s or students' library. It’s packed with:
• Vivid illustrations that bring India’s landscapes and animals to life
• Engaging storytelling that sparks curiosity and imagination
• Educational activities and discussion questions perfect for classroom or bedtime learning
• A gentle introduction to geography, culture, and wildlife conservation

Ideal for ages 5–9, this book makes a thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, or just because. And if your child loves animals or dreams of faraway places, Jackie’s journey will become a fast favorite.

Teachers are calling it “a great way to introduce children to the world,” and kids can’t get enough of Jackie’s adventures!

Available now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats.
👉 Explore the book on Amazon https://amzn.to/3CpO1YR

Give your child the world—one penguin adventure at a time. Image animation courtesy Eric O.

10/28/2025

Ready for a wild adventure with your little explorer? “Jackie the Penguin Goes to India” is the perfect gift for curious kids—and the grownups who love reading with them!

Looking for a children’s book that’s educational, adventurous, and absolutely adorable? Meet Jackie the Penguin, the intrepid traveler who’s off to India in search of the elusive Bengal tiger! In this fourth installment of the Adventures of Jackie the Penguin series by author and travel photographer Alex Shaland, young readers will journey through India’s lush wildlife reserves—all through the eyes of a lovable penguin.

Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, or librarian, this book is a must-have for your child’s or students' library. It’s packed with:

• Vivid illustrations that bring India’s landscapes and animals to life
• Engaging storytelling that sparks curiosity and imagination
• Educational activities and discussion questions perfect for classroom or bedtime learning
• A gentle introduction to geography, culture, and wildlife conservation

Ideal for ages 5–9, this book makes a thoughtful gift for birthdays, holidays, or just because. And if your child loves animals or dreams of faraway places, Jackie’s journey will become a fast favorite.

Teachers are calling it “a great way to introduce children to the world,” and kids can’t get enough of Jackie’s adventures!
Available now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle formats.

👉 Explore the book on Amazon
https://amzn.to/3CpO1YR

Give your child the world—one penguin adventure at a time.

10/22/2025

Upcoming Virtual Lecture "Scandinavia through the Eyes of a Jewish Traveler"

From the windswept fjords of Norway to the quiet resilience of Danish Jewish communities, this journey from Scandinavia’s Jewish past to present invites those who cherish global Jewish heritage and thought-provoking history to uncover stories rarely told.

Title: "Scandinavia through the Eyes of a Jewish Traveler"
Presented by: Irene Shaland a Jewish historian and author of 7 books, including "The Dao of Being Jewish and Other Stories: Tales of Jewish Diaspora, Persecution, the Holocaust and Rebirth in Europe, Africa and Asia"

Link to "The Dao of Being Jewish": https://amzn.to/2T1u5kK
Event is hosted online by: BZD, Baltimore, MD, USA
Date and Time: Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 11:00 AM EST
Place: Online Zoom event

BZD Virtual Events are exclusively for BZD members (unless otherwise noted). Visit the BZD website for details:
https://bzdisrael.org/scandinavia-through-the-eyes-of-a-jewish-traveler/
BZD Phone: +410-484-4510
BZD email: [email protected]
Event Description

Description provided by the BZD:
Join the BZD for a captivating journey through Norway, Sweden, and Denmark with internationally published author Irene Shaland. Known for their breathtaking landscapes, royal capitals, and striking modern design, these countries also hold rich and often little-known Jewish stories.

Together we’ll explore the Jewish communities that once thrived in Scandinavia, the role each nation played during the Holocaust, and what it means to live as a Jew in these societies today. From history to modern life, this presentation offers a unique window into Scandinavia through Jewish eyes.

Learn more about the presenter Irene Shaland: https://amzn.to/3DM6rDk

09/29/2025

Announcing Our New Virtual Lecture "Porto and the North: Resilience and Defiance"

Step into the hidden world of Sephardic resilience and rediscovery! If you’re a Jewish history enthusiast—or planning a meaningful journey to Portugal—this virtual lecture is your gateway to a rich, little-known chapter of Jewish heritage.
Join renowned scholar Irene Shaland for her newest presentation in the “Saga of Sefarad” series: “Porto and the North: Resilience and Defiance.” From the majestic synagogue and museums of Porto to the mysterious villages “Behind the Mountains,” where Crypto-Jews secretly practiced their faith, this immersive experience will transport you through centuries of courage, ingenuity, and spiritual defiance.

Whether you're tracing ancestral roots or mapping your next travel adventure, this lecture promises revelations you won’t find in guidebooks. Registration is open—don’t miss your chance to uncover the untold stories of Sephardic Portugal.

Title: "Porto and the North: Resilience and Defiance"
Presented by: Jewish Historian and Author Irene Shaland
Hosted by: New City Library, New York
Date and Time: Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at 7:00 PM EST
Place: Zoom virtual event

This virtual event is free, but registration is required to receive the link to attend this lecture.

Link to registration: https://newcity.librarycalendar.com/event/jews-portugal-64161
Read more: https://wp.me/p1JQJe-1QE

FOSTERING CROSS CULTURAL DIVERSITY, TOLERANCE, INCLUSION, AND UNDERSTANDING AROUND THE WORLD WITH AN EMPHASIS ON JEWISH HISTORY.

07/03/2025

Review of "Shaland’s Porto and Northern Portugal"
by Barbara Miller

Shaland’s Porto and Northern Portugal is the third exquisite book, in Irene Shaland’s five book series on her travels in Portugal. It is a deep delve into the Jewish history of the area but also brings to life generally the history, geography, art, culture, and grandeur of the area. It is a state-of-the-art travel guide but offers so much more than what would normally be seen or understood by a traveller because of the expert research of the author who is Jewish herself and has an eye for what would escape the attention of most travellers.

The book is also superbly illustrated with a large number of colour photographs by Alex Shaland, Irene’s husband, and children’s author, who shares her travel adventures with her.
Even if you are not a globe trotter, this book has much to offer for those wanting to understand the history of the Jewish diaspora – the persecution, the forced conversions, the Inquisitions, and the expulsions. There is also a visit to a Holocaust Museum. The book also covers the times Jewish culture thrived, and the history of Kings, Christianity, the Knights Templar, and Islam in the land.
No wonder Irene is a sought-after speaker and educator on Jewish history, art, culture and heritage and her travel articles are eagerly awaited.

If you are planning to visit Portugal, take this book with you and keep it in your hand as you explore Portugal as it gives you a practical guide of what to do day to day in your travel. Better still, get it before you go and plan your travels.

Barbara Miller, author of over 12 books including If I Survive: N**i Germany and the Jews, 100-year-old Lena Goldstein’s Miracle Story.

Paperback edition: https://amzn.to/45jzRog
eBook edition: https://amzn.to/3FXNrmX