In their debut book “Don’t Feed the Lion,” CNN anchor and senior global affairs analyst Bianna Golodryga, alongside Israeli news anchor Yonit Levi, take on a significant topic aimed at middle-grade readers: antisemitism. The narrative is sparked when a celebrity soccer player makes an antisemitic remark that goes viral, causing 13-year-old Theo and those around him to confront their own reactions and responsibilities in an age where such issues cannot be ignored.
The impetus for writing this book was deeply personal for both authors. They recounted their long-standing friendship, which began when Levi interviewed Golodryga during the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Over the years, they developed a sisterly bond, finding commonality through their experiences as mothers of children the same age as their characters. The tragic events of October 7 intensified their desire to discuss antisemitism, especially after Golodryga’s son, facing the harsh realities of social media, questioned why a beloved celebrity would make hateful remarks about Jews. This pivotal moment highlighted the lack of resources available to help young people understand such complex issues, inspiring Golodryga and Levi to pen a book that could address these topics in an age-appropriate manner.
As they sought a publisher, Golodryga and Levi faced challenges in finding a home for their manuscript. Many major publishing houses showed little interest, but a chance encounter with Michael Lynton, a figure from the media industry who expressed support for their topic, led them to Arcadia, a smaller publishing house willing to take a risk on their project. This partnership not only allowed for a quicker publication timeline but also provided a platform for a story they felt was crucial in today’s societal landscape.
The book delves into the complexities of antisemitism, prompting the authors to carefully select the boundaries of their narrative. They decided to weave personal experiences with broader social themes, exploring the Israeli identity of the grandparents while delivering a universal message about the ongoing struggle against hate.
Looking to the future, both authors are already contemplating their next collaborative project, possibly aimed at an adult audience, and reflect on how this writing journey has deepened their friendship and provided them with new insights as storytellers.
“Don’t Feed the Lion” is set to be released by Arcadia on November 11, priced at $15.99. Golodryga and Levi’s work stands as a testament to the power of friendship, partnership, and the commitment to meaningful dialogue in challenging times. Their endeavor highlights the importance of addressing difficult themes in literature for young readers, aiming to foster understanding and empathy at a crucial age.