Palestine 1936: The Great Revolt and the Roots of the Middle East Conflict by Oren Kessler (Rowman & Littlefield) has won the $100,000 Sami Rohr Prize for Jewish Literature, given in association with the National Library of Israel to "an emerging author writing in or translated into English who demonstrates the potential for continued contribution to the world of Jewish literature."
Organizers said, "Palestine 1936 has been heralded for its nuanced and balanced narrative on the origins of the Middle East conflict with far-reaching implications for our time. Kessler masterfully navigates the complex landscape of historical events, providing readers with a thought-provoking analysis of the actions and perspectives of the remarkable individuals involved in the conflict. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, he sheds light on a pivotal period in history, offering a deeper understanding of the forces that have shaped the region to this day."