On June 3, 2026, SHAI hosted a Book Talk at the Great Neck Library featuring Zion Halili, author of Thugs to Riches, in conversation with SHAI Board Member Shahram Mike Delafraz.

Born in the Jewish ghetto of Tehran, the author traveled to Israel as a teen to escape the dire and economically hopeless conditions of the mahaleh. After his army service Mr. Z traveled the world seeking tranquility outside of war-torn Israel. He found himself in Germany, where a life of crime nearly cost him his life and led to his expulsion. In the United States, he found a new beginning, transforming his life and becoming a successful businessman and valued member of the Jewish community. Mr. Z’s remarkable story left the audience amazed and thoroughly entertained. Thugs to Riches is available in Persian, Hebrew, and English.