Some of Rabbi Simcha Weinstein’s earliest memories involve comic books, superheroes, and (the now valuable) vintage Batman and Superman toys.

While some of his childhood friends abandoned these “fads” as soon as new toys came along, Simcha’s devotion to these superheroes only grew stronger as he grew older.

His interest in entertainment inspired him to such a great extent that he chose to study film in college, and he ultimately received his bachelor’s degree in Film History from Manchester Metropolitan University in England.

Following graduation, he became an associate for the British Film Commission and was responsible for the coordination and production of many feature films throughout the United Kingdom.

It is said that when man makes plans, God laughs. Following a major career turn, Simcha decided to dedicate his life to the pursuit of Jewish outreach and become a Rabbi. This powerful paradigm shift has forced Simcha to reconsider the popular culture of his youth through the lens of his comment to Jewish ethics and spirituality

Marriage brought Simcha to New York, where he became the founder of the Jewish Student Foundation of Downtown Brooklyn an educational and cultural center that strives to ignite Jewish pride and commitment through innovative educational and social experiences in an open environment. He is also the Rabbi of Pratt Institute and Long Island College Hospital.

A witty, entertaining, and much sought-after public speaker. His lectures are popular within the international circuit, and he has also been a featured Scholar-in-Residence at many universities and synagogues in North America. Simcha lives in Brooklyn Heights, New York, with his wife, two children and vast comic book collection.

 

Q & A with Simcha Weinstein

Q: How long did it take to write Up, Up, and Oy Vey?
A: About two years—give or take a few months.

Q: How did the idea originate?
A: At the end of one of my successful synagogue lectures. I suddenly realized that this was a topic in which Jews can learn many of the precepts of Jewish heritage in a fun and entertaining way.

Q: Did the book involve any special research or unusual writing habits?
A: I compiled a collection of hundreds of articles dealing with the subject of Jews in comics. I also collaborated with Floyd Huges, a Professor at Pratt Institute and a former Marvel artist who supported, confirmed, and enhanced my findings. Steven M. Bergson, who is a librarian at the Jewish Public Library of Toronto as well as a well-known comic book historian, was also a tremendous help to me while researching this project. Another valuable contributor to the book was comic book legend Stan Lee. Not only did he grant me a telephone interview, he also gave me a testimonial once he saw the finished product.

Q: In discussing your book with friends and associates, what did they find most intriguing?
A: Everybody seemed to have their favorite superhero and thus their favorite chapter.

Q: Other than comic books, do you have any avocations and/or hobbies?
A: I am an English soccer zealot, and I am mad about the music of Matisyahu. I also enjoy studying the synthesis of popular culture and spirituality.