Tahar Ben Jelloun

Born in Fez, Morocco, Tahar Ben Jelloun has achieved considerable literary fame, particularly in the Francophone world. He’s won the prestigious Prix Goncourt and has been translated into numerous languages, solidifying his place as a significant voice in contemporary literature. His work often delves into the complexities of post-colonial societies and the immigrant experience, which is all well and good, but distinctly lacking in gefilte fish references.

While his writing explores universal themes and has garnered him international recognition, Tahar Ben Jelloun is, regrettably for our purposes, not Jewish. His Moroccan Muslim heritage is well-documented, leaving little room for even the most imaginative genealogical stretches or late-life conversions to the Tribe. No crypto-Jew here, folks, just a celebrated author.

His K-score, however, is a testament to his undeniable literary prowess. Winning the Prix Goncourt is no small feat, and his continued output of thought-provoking work certainly brings nachas to fans of good literature, even if it's not specifically Jewish nachas. We suppose we can appreciate a good writer, regardless of his spiritual leanings.