By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
Once in a while, I receive a review copy and shake my head when I open it. “What was I thinking?” I ask myself when I open the book. In the latest case, not only was the novel almost 700 pages, but it was written in blank verse. But, since I did ask for a copy, …
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
I don’t read many romance novels; the only ones I prefer usually include a large dose of humor. However, these rarely result in my thinking about the characters after I turn the final page. And, of course, the endings are easy to predict. Well, while that’s true…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
What makes a biography greater than the story of one individual? When it narrates the history of an age, offering readers a better understanding of the times in which the person lived. That describes Debby Applegate’s excellent “Madam: The Biography of Polly Adl…
When writing a card congratulating 13-year-olds on their b’nai mitzvah, the note usually includes the words “wishing you well on your continuing Jewish journey.” That’s because learning – particularly Torah study – is part of a never-ending journey. Numerous books focus on differ…
By Rabbi Rachel Esserman
The interest in Yiddish literature seems to be increasing. Books – from newly discovered works to writings ignored for decades – have been translated for an English speaking audience. These translations include two recent books: the historical graphic novel “W…
