Rating: Summary: A great overview of the Conversion process. Review: A straightforward guide to conversion to Judaism.
This book helped me to answer many questions I had while exploring the paths to becoming Jewish.
This guide is based upon the non-Orthodox process of conversion.
Rating: Summary: An essential read for any prospective convert Review: A truly loving book, that feels as if it was written personally for you. If you are considering conversion to Judaism, no matter by what path, this is a book that you must read. Of all the books that I read going through this long process this was by far the best. It deals with the real issues that we all face and gives confidence as it is written from an experiential base not shared with many other authors. It is an inclusive book that gives you support and pride in your quest.
Rating: Summary: Superb! Review: A wonderful book for those who want to know in basic language what it's all about!! I also recommend a terrific little book called, A Little joy, a little Oy which, together with this book, gives the convert an emotional experience of the feeling of being Jewish!Ellie Markowitz
Rating: Summary: Anita Diament is so good Review: All of Anita Diament's non-fiction books are so good (I haven't read her work of fiction - The Red Tent). When I began studying Judaism, her books were given to me to read as textbooks. They are wonderfully well-written and informative. Her topics engage people. She gives you choices early on so that you can start immediately choosing where you want to go as a Jew.
Rating: Summary: this is the book I wish I had had when I converted... Review: Anita Diamant has done a huge mitzvah (good deed) in writing this book. It is without a doubt the best book on conversion. There are plenty of books out there that teach you what you need to BE Jewish, but this one will tell you what you need to know before and as you BECOME Jewish. Great advice for dealing with tough issues such as family relationships, Christian holidays, children, etc. I teach an Intro to Judaism class and this book is required reading.
Rating: Summary: not what I was looking for Review: As a person choosing Judaism solely out of spiritual and religious conviction I didn't feel my needs were met. This book seems like it is an incredibly valuable tool to those who are part of an interfaith couple but not so valuable to those who are doing this alone. One thing I found in this book that I have not found in many other books on converting to Judaism is information on children. As a single mother i am searching everywhere on info on how to best introduce Judaism to my daughter and how she can be included on this journey of mine. I am grateful about the inclusion of that subject in Mrs. Diamant's book but again it was geared towards interfaith families never single ones.
Rating: Summary: Excellent Reading! Review: As a potential convert myself, I was happy to find a friendly book describing some of the rituals that I had heard about, but never really understood! I also liked the fact that the author's husband also converted and was able to share his experiences throughout his journey. There are not that many texts around on conversion (at least recent ones) and the ones that do exist seem to assume that the woman in an interfaith relationship is the one converting. I've yet to see a text fully describe the conversion of a male with the exception of this book! I highly recommend this text to ANYONE considering converting (man or woman)!
Rating: Summary: Not just for Liberal Jews!!! Review: As a traditionally-observant Jew, I feel I should point out that the only thing I didn't enjoy about Diamant's book is her assertion that the principles she introduces do not apply to Orthodox conversions. Any convert, regardless of denomination, would do well to read this book to find a better grasp on the *spiritual* gifts that Judaism can bestow on their life.
Rating: Summary: Extraordinarily helpful. Review: As one who is new to the conversion process, I found this book to be extremely helpful. Not only does it describe in user-friendly terms the actual procedures involved in conversion, Ms. Dimante discusses areas involving psychological discomfort, i.e., how one's birth family might feel rejected, giving up the trappings of Christmas whether or not one believes in the concept. I read this book in two sittings, and I didn't want to put it down. I know I'll read parts of it again.
Rating: Summary: A FINE HAND-HOLDING GUIDE Review: Explanatory and well documented, Mrs. Diamant's "Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends" offers a hand-holding guide. Many questions most would-be converts may have concerning synagogue, rabbi, rules, and rituals were well anticipated. The answers to them were as well, comprehensive. The book is a very fine introductory package. However, I would suggest that whoever quests for more after reading this book should journey into "Conversion to Judaism: A Guidebook" (written by Lawrence Epstein), or check out George Robinson's "Essential Judaism: A Complete Guide to Beliefs, Customs, and Rituals".
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