By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
“Oh, the subtitle is a pun,” I thought after receiving a copy of “Sex: Jewish Positions” edited by Miriam Goldmann, Joanne Rosenthal and Titia Zoeter (Hirmer Publishers/University of Chicago Press). Then I realized that “Sex” was not a book of essays off…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
The reason I didn’t ask for a review copy of “From Sun to Sun” by Kenneth Wishnia (PM Press) was due to its dual nature: while part of the novel is a revised version of the biblical Book of Ruth, other chapters take place in contemporary New York City and feat…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
That the number of novels featuring golems – creatures of dirt/clay brought to life by means of a magical formula– has been increasing with the rise of antisemitism is no surprise. Having a creature to protect us from those who would do us harm is something most…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
I know that when some readers see that the books I’m reviewing are for teens/tweens, they figure the works have nothing to offer them and turn the page. However, the novels in this review aren’t only for the young and young at heart. “The Judgment of Yoyo Gold…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
A growing trend within the Modern Orthodox movement allows women to study halachic (legalistic) sources, such as the Talmud and other writings, so they can better understand not only how to follow Jewish law accurately, but be informed about the discussions and reas…
