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DOWN-TO-EARTH JUDAISM

FOOD, MONEY, SEX, AND THE REST OF LIFE

A sincere but overly idiosyncratic guide for those who are disenchanted with more traditional Judaism. Waskow, author of 12 books (most recently Becoming Brothers, 1993, with brother Howard), continues his career-long ``Godwrestling'' in this latest attempt to remake Judaism. The rabbi winnows through millennia of biblical and rabbinical teachings to find a few grains in the mountains of chaff. He envisions an ideal post-rabbinic Judaism that is ``feminist, holistic, eco-centered, body-affirming, yet deeply rooted in the Jewish past, both affirming and affirmed by most of the Jewish people.'' The results can often be satisfying, in a fuzzy, feel- good kind of way. Where traditional dietary restrictions fail to be meaningful for many, Waskow suggests that Jews focus on ecologically sound foods and manufactured products. In the author's brand of Judaism, an adaptation of ``eco-kashrut'' could either coexist with traditional kosher laws or replace them. Waskow would also like to see a sense of spirituality reemerge in the use of money. Among the concepts that point the way is the Tzedakah collective, a means by which laypeople pool charity monies and decide together how to spend them. Less benign are Waskow's musings on sexuality: Not only does he see no reason to prohibit premarital sex, but he sees no religious or ethical problem with extramarital sex and open marriage when conventional marriage becomes too restrictive. In the post-AIDS era, it is difficult to take Waskow seriously when he lapses into an ``if it feels good, do it'' philosophy. Despite the author's impressive familiarity with Jewish teachings, there is nothing in this loosely ethical lifestyle guide that suggests a theology. Judaism involves a romance between humans and the divine, but Waskow's spiritual flirtation doesn't even constitute an open marriage with God. In the end, the reader learns more here about the spirit of Arthur Waskow than of authentic Jewish beliefs.

Pub Date: Sept. 15, 1995

ISBN: 0-688-11840-2

Page Count: 416

Publisher: Morrow/HarperCollins

Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 1, 1995

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NUTCRACKER

This is not the Nutcracker sweet, as passed on by Tchaikovsky and Marius Petipa. No, this is the original Hoffmann tale of 1816, in which the froth of Christmas revelry occasionally parts to let the dark underside of childhood fantasies and fears peek through. The boundaries between dream and reality fade, just as Godfather Drosselmeier, the Nutcracker's creator, is seen as alternately sinister and jolly. And Italian artist Roberto Innocenti gives an errily realistic air to Marie's dreams, in richly detailed illustrations touched by a mysterious light. A beautiful version of this classic tale, which will captivate adults and children alike. (Nutcracker; $35.00; Oct. 28, 1996; 136 pp.; 0-15-100227-4)

Pub Date: Oct. 28, 1996

ISBN: 0-15-100227-4

Page Count: 136

Publisher: Harcourt

Review Posted Online: May 19, 2010

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 1996

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TO THE ONE I LOVE THE BEST

EPISODES FROM THE LIFE OF LADY MENDL (ELSIE DE WOLFE)

An extravaganza in Bemelmans' inimitable vein, but written almost dead pan, with sly, amusing, sometimes biting undertones, breaking through. For Bemelmans was "the man who came to cocktails". And his hostess was Lady Mendl (Elsie de Wolfe), arbiter of American decorating taste over a generation. Lady Mendl was an incredible person,- self-made in proper American tradition on the one hand, for she had been haunted by the poverty of her childhood, and the years of struggle up from its ugliness,- until she became synonymous with the exotic, exquisite, worshipper at beauty's whrine. Bemelmans draws a portrait in extremes, through apt descriptions, through hilarious anecdote, through surprisingly sympathetic and understanding bits of appreciation. The scene shifts from Hollywood to the home she loved the best in Versailles. One meets in passing a vast roster of famous figures of the international and artistic set. And always one feels Bemelmans, slightly offstage, observing, recording, commenting, illustrated.

Pub Date: Feb. 23, 1955

ISBN: 0670717797

Page Count: -

Publisher: Viking

Review Posted Online: Oct. 25, 2011

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Feb. 1, 1955

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