Monday, December 22, 2014

Lemonade Girls Forever! A Positively Adorable Book!


Sara Miriam Gross has done a fantastic job in Lemonade Girls Forever! This is a sweet book of short stories about four girls who find a positive side to every event, no matter how sour it may seem.

Lemonade Girls Forever!Judging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

The cover to this book is colorful with an illustration of three girls making lemonade from a bunch of lemons. Its fun and cheerful, just like the content inside. 

Some Details I Liked:

Aside from the great writing style, I very much appreciated the extra detail of having a profile of each girl at the start of the book. The profiles are diverse and that is what gives each story its realistic touch, as the characters are consistent throughout the short stories. I also enjoyed the "Extra Tidbits" at the end of the book, which provide guidance and extra information on topics discussed in the stories.

Who This Book is For:

Although this book is probably intended for young teen or pre-teen girls, it is written smoothly and can easily be entertaining for adults as well. There isn't anything specifically feminine about the stories other than the fact that the main characters are girls, so I think a boy reader would also savor the episodes of the Lemonade Girls.

Who This Book Isn’t For:  

Lemonade Girls Forever! is a compilation of short stories, most of which appeared originally in the Mishpacha Junior, but not all. It is a nice size book at nearly 200 pages, but it isn't a novel that will take you through a specific time period and follow up on any conflict mentioned, if that is what you are looking for. 

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 

I would love to read the Lemonade Girls Grow Up and follow them through more complex situations. The storylines in this book are amazing, but since the characters are younger, the challenges they face are challenges that younger people deal with. That is great for this book, but I can only imagine how fun it would be if there was a next book... :)

In Conclusion:  

I was so happy to review this book and can't wait to share it with my daughter when she is old enough to read chapter books. There are so many great lessons in each story, making the book a pleasure to read and learn from.

Disclaimer:
I received this book for the purpose of reviewing it, but that it no way changed the way I read it and reviewed it.

Monday, August 11, 2014

Maran HaRav Ovadia - Teacher, Chief Rabbi and Much More...

Wow. That was the only word I could think of when I finished reading the book Maran HaRav Ovadia. In 550 pages (give or take), Rabbi Heimowitz, covers HaRav Ovadia's life from the time he was young through his levaya. 

Judging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

The cover is pretty typical of an Artscroll biography. The spine seems to extend onto the front, but I wasn't sure if that was part of the design or a printing error. Regardless, its a nice picture of the Rishon L'tzion in his glima and mitznefet.

Some Details I Liked: 

It took me some time to get used to it, but I liked that the book was written with a Sephardic pronunciation of words. The extra detail made it easy to relate to what was being said. I loved that the friendly slaps that HaRav Ovadia used to give when he was proud of someone were mentioned in the book. 

Who This Book is For:

I would give this book to anyone that is ready to read about greatness in our time. While there is also a lot of history in the book, I felt that the focus was more about how HaRav Ovadia went through those times. This book has many examples of how HaRav Ovadia was great in Torah, Middot and Yirat Shamayim. The episodes shared are ones that a young child can appreciate and older people can gain a lot from. 

Who This Book Isn’t For:  


If someone doesn't want to open their eyes to the commitment of Sephardic Jews, don't read this one. This book is an eye-opener and should be a lesson to all of us to grow and be the best we can be.

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 


I was very impressed with this book and I'm really not sure what could have made it better. The only thing that I can think of, is if it was done in two volumes because there was so much material to cover.

In Conclusion: 

Out of all the biographies that I've read, I felt that this one tops the charts. Between what HaRav  Ovadia went through in life, his travels and different positions for klal Yisrael, to his attitude throughout, there is so much to learn. This is a book that I'll cherish, re-read and share with my loved ones.

Disclaimer:
I received this book for the purpose of reviewing it, but that it no way changed the way I read it and reviewed it.

Monday, July 28, 2014

48 - Stories of the Ways People Acquired Torah Wisdom

I was very excited for another Nachman Seltzer book, as they are generally full of great, well-written stories. 48, however, is not the typical book of hashgacha pratis episodes. It is more of a learning book to use when going through the omer or the Mishna in Perkei Avos (6:6) which lists the 48 (hence the title) ways of acquiring Torah.



Judging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

It is a clean cover, focusing on the number 48, rather than what it signifies, which are the attributes themselves portrayed through a story for each one. 

Also, the actual hard cover of the book does not have the gold, so it is difficult to see what book it is without the slip cover.

Some Details I Liked:

I liked the fact that the author tried to find a story for each step in acquiring Torah. Not only was there a story, but generally, there was a detailed explanation of what that step is. After finishing the book, I had a much better understanding of the Mishna and a greater appreciation for the various methods in which a person can become great.

Who This Book is For:

This is a good book for teaching or to use in camp. It can be read as a chapter a day. It might also be a good springboard for discussion on other stories that may pertain to the topic.

Who This Book Isn’t For:  

This is not for young children. Some stories were graphic and quite scary. Its also not for someone looking for a cover-to-cover pleasure read, as it is more serious.

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better:

A few stories started off with "I had a hard time finding a story for this, so I asked...". I agree that it was probably challenging to find a good story appropriate for the step, but as a reader, I felt that it took away from the flow of the book to be told about the struggle.

In Conclusion:  

The stories are well-written as expected from a seasoned author. The concept of having stories align to a Mishna adds value to the book, but also takes it away from the general audience.

Disclaimer:
I received this book for the purpose of reviewing it, but that it no way changed the way I read it and reviewed it.

Tuesday, July 1, 2014

Rabbi Yoselman of Rosheim, an Oldie, but Goodie

R' Marcus Lehmann is famous for his historic books that are interesting to read and so educating at the same time. Rabbi Yoselman of Rosheim was a hero in his time and by doing so, he also saved the future of our nation. 

Judging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

The cover seems to connote a fairy tale era. One of knights and royalty. That is when the story takes place, but as much as it was "happily ever after", there is quite a bit of horror in the book.

Some Details I Liked:

I liked how the book tries to be as historically accurate as possible. Obviously we can't imagine the exact conversations, but the author tries his best.

Who This Book is For:

I would suggest this book for young adults and adults that are interested in a lesser known time period in Jewish history. This book discusses how different groups of Christianity had an effect on Europe and its population. It also goes through how the Jews were regarded in various areas.

Who This Book Isn’t For:  

This book is not for younger children who don't understand things like blood libels and crusades. Its important to first know about these concepts and the general diaspora before reading this book.

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 

Being that the book is so fact based, it sadly doesn't focus on Rabbi Yoselman's family and how he felt going on his missions. It does mention many times what the family is up to or how he was about to reunite with them, but you don't get to know much more than that.

In Conclusion:  

This is a great book to learn about one of the greatest askanim of yesteryear. It also teaches about trust in G-d and that in any situation, you never know who will be the messenger to bring about the salvation. 

Thursday, June 5, 2014

There's a Shark in the Mikvah! : A light-hearted look at Jewish women's dunking experiences

The title is so provocative, I loved it even before I got the book. There's a Shark in the Mikvah!* is a book of comic relief for a potentially anxiety filled mitzva, as well as some food for thought and light inspiration.


Judging the Book by its Cover - a first glance review: 

This is a fun book complete with illustrations! Now don't get scared, its completely tznius. The size of the book is also great. Its small and thin enough to hide in your purse or under your pillow, yet thick enough that you feel satisfied with the collection of stories that it holds.


 Some Details I Liked: 


The stories, gathered anonymously, are from all over. Dunkers and watchers. Small towns and cities, Israel, US and beyond. Ashkenazy and Sefardy. More religious and less so. There is a disclaimer in the beginning of the book that if anything doesn't sound right, ask your Rabbi.


Who This Book is For: 

If I could, I would give this book to every balanit, kalla and Rebbetzin, if I could. Not to mention anyone else I would potentially meet at the mikva. I would also recommend it to all kalla teachers to share. As a married woman for under five years, I felt that this book really gave me perspective for any semi-awkward situation I was in. My husband even enjoyed learning about the range of dipping experiences. 

Who This Book Isn’t For: 

OK, if you have very curious children keep this one away from them. The last thing you need is for them to see right through your excuses as you try to sneak out of the house...


What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 

While I loved the flow of the illustrations, I think they could have been improved with some computer manipulation. Its easy to darken the lines to make them more crisp or to lay the text around the image. Again this is just my opinion on how the adorable drawings could be a bit better.

In Conclusion: 

I love love this book. Its an awesome feeling that I belong to this club of anonymous woman who also cherish this mitzva and can smile instead of gritting their teeth. I strongly feel that nowadays the Jewish nation needs more books like this one. Mitzvos, no matter how serious or hard, should be able to be loved and filled with happiness. This book also unites all mitzva doers, which is truly beautiful.

Disclaimer:

I received this book for the purpose of reviewing it, but that it no way changed the way I read it and reviewed it.

*For purchase from the US, better to order from Amazon. If in Israel, please order directly from http://www.sharkinthemikvah.com/

Sunday, May 25, 2014

Get Real. Get Married.

Aleeza Ben Shalom has conquered the Shidduch crisis. 
In her book, Get Real Get Married, Mrs. Ben Shalom takes you through the perspectives necessary to get to the chupa in a clear and direct manner.



Judging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

The cover is peaceful and conveys a happy, sweet place to be. The size of the book is also friendly. Its a paperback with a large enough font, but not too large. Its easy to read with action plans and focused chapter subjects.

Some Details I Liked:

Actually, I not only liked, but loved the voice in this book. Aleeza was talking to me. There is clear communication. Sometimes its validating and other times, its pushing towards better actions. Its a real deal. Aleeza takes this stuff seriously, while covering a bunch of angles and even sticking in some humor at the end. 

Who This Book is For:



The best part about this book is that its for any non-atheist single. Meaning Aleeza talks about the hands off approach but doesn't specify that its a Jewish concept of shomer negiya, instead she details about the psychological benefit of keeping it non-physical. There also aren't any specifications of age or location in order to relate to her sage advice. Any part that is more for men (or the reverse)  is marked as such, and that segmentation is really a minor part of the book.

Who This Book Isn’t For:  



If you are looking for a book full of passukim or proofs from Tanach that you should meet your zivug, this isn't it. Aleeza keeps a Torah true perspective and definitely keeps G-d in mind, but its a strictly English publication.

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 

Well, I like happily ever after stories, I mean who doesn't? It would have been fun to read a few more "names have been changed for privacy" success stories. The points were written well, but again for enjoyment purposes that addition might have been nice.

In Conclusion:  

This is my new favorite get real book. I highly recommend it to singles that are thinking about starting to date or that feel stuck in dating land. I look forward to reading the next Get Real book.

Disclaimer:
I received this book for the purpose of reviewing it, but that it no way changed the way I read it and reviewed it.

Sunday, May 11, 2014

Right On Time, The Torah Approach to Punctuality

Did you ever wish you knew the Yekke secrets? "Right On Time" by Rabbi Leo Davids will give you a peek into how to become the master of time. 


Judging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

The cover of this book is very plain, as it is more of a sefer to be studied than a book for reading pleasure. The title is a little more generic than the focus of the book, which is more about the importance of what a Jewish man does and how it should be done with respect and in a timely fashion.

Some Details I Liked:

I liked the content. A lot. The points are important and often fall to the wayside. Rabbi Davids presents them in a clear way, with proper explanation and expansion.

Who This Book is For:

This book is for a serious reader. It is good for teachers or any adult that would like to express to themselves or others about the importance of being punctual and discipline within the Torah lifestyle. 

Who This Book Isn’t For:  

I would advise that this book not be given to a beginner to Torah. While it discusses core concepts, the framework of the book is written as something that needs improvement rather than a fresh education of the matter.

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 

There were two areas that I felt could be easily improved. The first is that the quote punctuation is not consistent with the language, meaning that, for example,  there is an end quote, where the next Hebrew line begins.  The second part that I didn't appreciate, are the comics. While comics are good to lighten the tone of a book, they are even better when they flow with the content of the chapter.

In Conclusion:  

This is an important work. It has a lot of great material and can be easily applied to life. At five chapters and just over 100 pages, this is a nice addition to any frum family's library.

Monday, April 28, 2014

The Doppelganger's Dance, the Latest Ezra Melamed Mystery!


The Doppelganger's Dance is another great read by Libi Astaire. It is the latest book in the series of the Ezra Melamed Mysteries. 


Judging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

I just adore the classy layout of each of these covers. With the setting in England, it is a perfect match!

Some Details I Liked:

The story-line is unique. Its realistic, but not too familiar, which makes it so enjoyable to read.

Who This Book is For:

This book has a great balance of male and female characters, which I found is not so common in non-romantic books. But, being that the balance is there, I think boys and girls alike would be fascinated by this tale.

Who This Book Isn’t For:  

This is clearly a novel, with historical detail, but a novel all the same. If someone is looking for a more factual tale, this is not for them. 

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 

Really no complaints. I did feel bad for Master Salomon at times...

In Conclusion:  

This is another great addition to Libi Astaire's impressive portfolio. Definitely a "goodread"!

Disclaimer:

I received this book for the purpose of reviewing it, but that it no way changed the way I read it and reviewed it.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Sefiros, Spiritual Refinement Through Counting The Omer

"Hayom yom .... l'omer." Do you know what day it is? What is the significance of the day anyways? What should I do about it? All those answers and more are in Sefiros, by Rabbi Yaacov Haber and Rabbi David Sedley.

Sefiros -- spiritual refinement through counting the OmerJudging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

The cover is a simple colorful one, which gives it a respectable sefer-like look. When flipping through the pages, you can see that each sefira is printed with a different shade. The layout of each "day" is clear, with a summary of the essence and "Action Points".

Some Details I Liked:

For a long time, I have been working on the idea that life is 3D. Meaning that in order to be the best you can be, you have to work in 3 areas - With God, With Others and With Yourself. In Sefiros, there are practical suggestions for how to grow in each area, each day.

Who This Book is For:

This book is for growing people. For someone who wants to better understand sefiros and/or the time period of sefiras ha'omer. It can be learned as a daily/nightly read throughout the 49 days, or it can be stretched and appreciated throughout the year.

Who This Book Isn’t For:  

Being that this book is a serious book, I'd say pick it up only if you want to genuinely learn. Its not watered down. I think it can be appreciated by children when parents use it as a teaching tool. 

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 

To try and find room for improvement on a book devoted to being better, is a nonsensical task. As much as I have had this book and read it over the years, I have not yet mastered its curriculum and continue to learn from its wealth.

In Conclusion:  

This is a basic, yet complex book to own, learn and cherish throughout sefiras ha'omer specifically, but is also valuable throughout the year. It is a classic which I highly recommend.

Thursday, March 27, 2014

Afterlife, The Jewish View - Where Are We Headed?

Do you lay awake at night wondering what comes next? Has someone close to you recently passed on and caused you to think about where exactly they passed on to...? Afterlife written by Jonathan Morgenstern and based on the teachings of Rabbi Sholom Kamenetsky, will answers those questions and more. 



Judging the Book by its Cover -  a first glance review:

This cover is brilliant! Life is a road, with a curve or two, but we can't see where it is headed. All we can see is the powerful sun that shines on us from beyond the horizon. That is a great metaphor for the afterlife, the World to Come, etc.


Some Details I Liked:


This book is well sourced. It has footnotes as applicable on the pages, as well as a Hebrew appendix in the back of the book.
It has clear sub-titles and charts to help ensure that the information is easily understood. 

Who This Book is For:


I felt that this book was pretty much inline with what I learned in Bais Yaakov and grew up with since. Therefore, I'd recommend it for someone with less of a strong Jewish education. It is also the perfect read before speaking with people who might ask about the seemingly abstract concept of the afterlife.

Who This Book Isn’t For:  


This book is written with the Jewish view and the Jewish view only. I would not share it with a non-Jew, just because its not relevant.  

What I Didn’t Like/Would Have Made it Better: 


There were some inconsistencies in the ways terms were written. Some had the sefardy/modern taf, while others used the ashkenazy saf. Its not a big deal, but the pronunciation does have an impact on the intended audience, so it should be one way or the other. 

In Conclusion:  

This book explains the Afterlife based on 3,000 years of Jewish tradition and scholarship, in just over 100 pages. It is also newly available in paperback.