My Name is Asher Lev by Chaim Potok

I read this book on my honeymoon in Costa Rica, so my memories of it are a bit obstructed by thoughts of zip lining and sitting on the beach.

Like Potok's other novels, this one gripped me from the beginning and did not let go. My heart broke for Asher like it did for Danny two years ago. If you have never read Potok, do it now; you won't regret it.

The Chosen by Chaim Potok

Danny, Reuven, Rav Malter, and Reb Saunders came into my life in the guise of assigned reading. That being said, they are the best forced friends that I have ever made. Danny's struggle with his father's silence and his place in his Hasidic community almost broke my heart. At some point we all question, conform, and restructure our lives. Danny and Reuven used their friendship to get through those struggles together. I just hope that I am that type of friend for someone.

The Promise by Chaim Potok

(NB--This book is a sequel to a book I have not yet posted. I am have some logistical issues taking the picture for that one. It will be up soon.)

I was a bit relieved when I found out that I did not have to say goodbye to Reuven and Danny quite as soon as I had thought. This book is about the choices they make, professionally, personally, and academically as they struggle through the final spasms of their education and learn what it really means to grow up. Their problems mirror where I am in my own life, and I am thankful to Potok for addressing the topic seriously. This time I really am saying goodbye to the duo, although I will admit that I think these are friends I will continue to visit for a long time.

A Short History of the Jewish People by Raymond Scheindlin

This book is done simply, the way I like to read history. I can trudge through primary documents, read historiographic overviews, and delve into the minute details of events just as well as your average undergraduate historian. Sometimes though, it is nice to just get a general overview.

As far as Jewish Memphis history goes, Seessel's grocery was a major family business in Memphis for decades until changing hands a few years ago. Started by immigrants in 1858 and still operating under the same name name during my childhood, the stores and delivery trucks were a part of many people's lives. Just shows that the Diaspora community is vibrant in Memphis as well as other places.

Back to the Sources: Reading the Classic Jewish Texts by Barry Holtz

Certainly not a light read by any stretch of the imagination. The chapter on Talmud almost did me in. I got through all of it except for the chapters on Kabbalah and Hasidic writings though. I consider my worldview broadened in the best possible way.

What I Wish My Christian Friends Knew about Judaism by Robert Schoen

Schoen is funny, really funny. He takes a light-hearted approach to explaining Judaism to Christians, a tactic I fully appreciate. He covers everything from bar mitzvahs to shabbat to kosher hot dogs. There is of course more to Judaism then bagels, menorahs, and Fiddler on the Roof, but Schoen uses them all to explain a different world view. The book will not help with any deep, theological inquiries, but it is great if you happen to be looking for a brief introduction to Jewish culture.