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.
"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.
Judging 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.
