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.