Aliyah in wartime Israel: Building a new home, opening an English bookstore

Michal Goldschmidt's journey to Israel is a testament to the enduring allure of aliyah, even amidst profound personal and national challenges. Having made aliyah in September 2023, shortly before the events of October 7th, Goldschmidt faced immediate hurdles, including illness and the subsequent upheaval. Yet, her resolve to build a life in Israel, spurred by her relationship with Ezra Margulies, remained unshaken. This commitment reflects a powerful narrative of perseverance that resonates deeply within the Israeli experience.

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You just have to keep going. I thought if I went home, I’d never come back.

Goldschmidt, who holds a PhD in art history and previously curated at London's prestigious Tate Gallery, encountered significant professional obstacles. The Israeli art world did not readily offer her the opportunities she had anticipated, leading her to a pivotal decision: to create her own path rather than rely on external validation. This proactive approach, a hallmark of the Israeli spirit of entrepreneurship, led to the conception of Bookhaus Tel Aviv.

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I made aliyah for him. It was always just a question of who’s moving. And I’d committed to giving it a real shot.

Bookhaus Tel Aviv is more than just a bookstore; it's envisioned as a vibrant community hub for English speakers in Greater Tel Aviv. Goldschmidt's vision is to provide a welcoming space with a curated selection of English books, a comfortable atmosphere for socializing, and friendly customer service. This initiative addresses a specific need within the Anglo community, offering a familiar cultural touchstone and a gathering place. The challenges of establishing a new business, from navigating licensing to procuring inventory, are considerable, but Goldschmidt's determination, bolstered by support from fellow olim and local resources, exemplifies the pioneering spirit that continues to shape modern Israel.

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So I thought, okay, relying on other people taking a chance on me is not working. I can’t sit at home and say I used to be a museum curator. After a while, I had to find a way to build my own life and help myself be as happy and satisfied as I can be living here.