📖 Overview
British comedian David Baddiel examines antisemitism and its place in contemporary discourse on racism and discrimination. The book presents evidence and arguments for why prejudice against Jewish people is often overlooked or treated differently from other forms of racism, particularly in progressive circles.
Baddiel draws from personal experience, media examples, and social commentary to analyze how Jews are perceived in modern society. He addresses topics including representation in media, the complexity of Jewish identity, and the intersection of antisemitism with both left-wing and right-wing politics.
Through examples spanning entertainment, politics, and social media, the book illustrates the contradictions and blind spots in how society approaches discrimination against Jewish people. The work maintains a careful balance between cultural commentary and personal perspective.
The book contributes to broader discussions about identity politics, racism, and the nature of discrimination in the 21st century. It raises questions about how society categorizes and responds to different forms of prejudice, and challenges readers to examine their own assumptions about antisemitism.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this book as a clear, concise examination of how antisemitism is treated differently from other forms of racism. Many note it can be read in one sitting.
Readers appreciated:
- Personal examples and experiences from Baddiel's life
- Short length that gets straight to the point
- Accessible writing style for complex topic
- Evidence through social media examples and current events
Common criticisms:
- Too UK-focused, lacking global perspective
- Some felt it oversimplified complex issues
- Several readers wanted more historical context
- A few found the social media examples dated
Ratings:
Goodreads: 4.24/5 (7,800+ ratings)
Amazon UK: 4.6/5 (3,900+ ratings)
Amazon US: 4.6/5 (1,100+ ratings)
Multiple readers mentioned the book prompted discussions with friends and family about antisemitism. Several Jewish readers commented it articulated experiences they struggled to express. Non-Jewish readers often noted it changed their perspective on how antisemitism manifests in progressive spaces.
📚 Similar books
How to Fight Anti-Semitism by Bari Weiss
Analyzes the rise of modern antisemitism from multiple political directions and proposes concrete steps for combating it.
Antisemitism: Here and Now by Deborah Lipstadt Examines contemporary antisemitism through real-world cases and correspondence, breaking down its manifestations in current society.
People Love Dead Jews by Dara Horn Explores how Jewish heritage and suffering are often commodified while living Jewish communities face ongoing prejudice.
The New Anti-Semitism by Phyllis Chesler Documents the evolution of antisemitism in the modern era with focus on its manifestations in progressive movements.
Letters to My Palestinian Neighbor by Yossi Klein Halevi Presents the Jewish perspective on Israel and identity through letters that bridge cultural divides and address common misconceptions.
Antisemitism: Here and Now by Deborah Lipstadt Examines contemporary antisemitism through real-world cases and correspondence, breaking down its manifestations in current society.
People Love Dead Jews by Dara Horn Explores how Jewish heritage and suffering are often commodified while living Jewish communities face ongoing prejudice.
The New Anti-Semitism by Phyllis Chesler Documents the evolution of antisemitism in the modern era with focus on its manifestations in progressive movements.
Letters to My Palestinian Neighbor by Yossi Klein Halevi Presents the Jewish perspective on Israel and identity through letters that bridge cultural divides and address common misconceptions.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔹 David Baddiel began his career as a comedian and TV personality before becoming an acclaimed author, writing both fiction and non-fiction books, including children's literature.
🔹 "Jews Don't Count" became a Sunday Times bestseller and was later adapted into a Channel 4 documentary featuring interviews with prominent Jewish figures in entertainment.
🔹 The book's title was inspired by a tweet Baddiel posted in 2017, which went viral and sparked widespread discussion about antisemitism in progressive circles.
🔹 While writing about serious subject matter, Baddiel maintains his characteristic wit throughout the book, which runs a concise 144 pages despite tackling complex themes.
🔹 The author has been particularly vocal about antisemitism in football culture, making this a significant focus in both the book and his broader advocacy work.