Review by Booklist Review
Sacks, Chief Rabbi of Britain, writes eloquently about Judaism in a highly personal essay that was originally presented as a wedding gift to his children. His words speak directly to all Jews about what it means to be Jewish, why it is important to maintain a Jewish identity, and the value of the Jewish way of life. Raising themes such as the relationship between God and man, the idea of covenantal morality, and the problem of ambivalence and assimilation, Sacks formulates his thesis: that over the millennia, Jews have come to define themselves by their disasters, expulsions, persecutions, and holocausts, not their survival and strength. In a clear, steady style that can also soar, Sacks explains why this disaster-driven thinking denies the beauty and strength of Judaism. Important ideas explained in a highly accessible manner. --Ilene Cooper
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Library Journal Review
At least half of young Jews today are turning their backs on their Jewish heritage, notes Sacks, the chief rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth and author of Faith in the Future and a number of other books. Tracing some of the milestones in Jewish history, he poses questions for these Jews: "What are the claims that Jewish identity makes upon me?" "What is the nature of the collective Jewish journey that I am asked to continue?" "How did we lose the way?" He is proud to be a Jew because of Judaism's moral purpose, commitment to the poor and oppressed, faith in freedom, belief in the Torah, and continuing tradition. He urges young Jews to continue the journey, to pass it on to their children, to be a "letter in the scroll" of the eternal people. A most profound and eloquently expressed meditation, this is highly recommended for all Jews as well as for non-Jews looking to better understand the Jewish legacy and commitment.DMarcia Welsh, formerly with Guilford Free Lib., CT (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Review by Booklist Review
Review by Library Journal Review
