Eddna Samuel has made her way from India, to Israel, to New York City. Now, she has landed in the pages of Hyphen: Jewish Stories in Our Own Words. As one of the anthology’s twelve real, vulnerable, and vibrant stories, Eddna’s voice vividly comes to life as a celebration of Jewish diversity. You can read Eddna’s full story in your own copy of Hyphen, follow her on Instagram as she highlights her cultural and culinary adventures, or meet her at an upcoming event.
In a conversation with Be’chol Lashon, Eddna shares a few words about the experience of being a part of Hyphen.
Why did you choose this part of your personal story to share with the world?
I chose to share this part of my story because I believe it’s essential to showcase the diversity and complexity of Jewish experiences. As an Indian Jew, I’ve navigated multiple identities and cultures, and I hope that my story can inspire others to do the same.
What does it mean to you to have your story shared with the world in this way?
Having my story shared in the Hyphen anthology is a dream come true. It means that my experiences and perspectives can reach a broader audience and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of Jewish identity.
What is it like to see your story in comic form?
Seeing my story in comic form is a unique and powerful experience. The visual elements bring my narrative to life in ways that words alone cannot, and I’m excited to see how readers will respond to this new format.
Did you enjoy comics growing up? If so, what did you enjoy about them? What were/are some of your favorites?
While I didn’t grow up reading comics specifically, I appreciate the art form’s ability to convey complex stories and emotions through visuals and text. I’m thrilled to see how comics can be used to share diverse Jewish experiences.
How would it have felt to see someone like yourself represented in a comic in this way when you were younger?
Seeing someone like myself represented in a comic would have been incredibly empowering. It would have shown me that my experiences and identity are valid and worth sharing, and it would have given me a sense of belonging to a broader community.
Why do you think we need stories like yours and Hyphen?
Stories like mine and Hyphen are crucial because they challenge dominant narratives and showcase the diversity of Jewish experiences. By sharing our stories, we can build bridges between communities and foster greater understanding and empathy.
What do you hope people think or feel when they read your story, and Hyphen as a whole?
I hope readers come away with a deeper appreciation for the complexity and diversity of Jewish identity. I hope they’re inspired to seek out and amplify the stories of underrepresented communities, and to work towards building a more inclusive and just society.
Sample panel from Eddna’s story. Art by Aude Massot.
Sample panel from Eddna’s story. Art by Aude Massot.
