Synopsis: Young Reuven Malter is uncertain of himself and his place in life. As an unconventional scholar, he seeks recognition from his teachers. Together with his old friend Danny Saunders, who has rejected the legacy of his father's rabbinical dynasty for a life as a healer, Reuven fights to save a sensitive boy trapped by his genius and rage. Through this journey, Reuven deepens his understanding of himself and begins to find the peace he has long desired.

Synopsis: David Lurie faces the challenges of growing up in a depression-era Bronx neighborhood, battling bullies and his own frail health. As he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, he must forge a new path that conflicts with his devout father's beliefs and his upbringing.

Synopsis: This guidebook offers alternative and nontheistic ways for Jews to celebrate Jewish holidays and life’s rites of passage. It explores the historical significance and development of Jewish religion and culture, and includes anecdotes, quotes, and resource information.

Synopsis: "Zen Judaism" offers a unique perspective on spirituality, combining teachings from both Zen Buddhism and Judaism. It presents nearly 100 sacred teachings that promise enlightening experiences. The book explores themes such as the nature of self, the importance of presence, and the relationship between karma and personal experience. Through humor and wisdom, it invites readers to reflect on spirituality in everyday life.

Synopsis: Bernard Malamud's first collection of short stories, The Magic Barrel, was published in 1959 and is considered a classic. Set in New York and Italy, the stories follow Arthur Fidelman, a struggling Jewish painter, as he navigates the ruins of Europe in search of his artistic heritage. Featuring characters like egg candlers, shoemakers, matchmakers, and rabbis, the collection combines urban realism with Yiddish idiom and elements of magical artistry. It explores themes of struggle, frustration, and heartbreak within the immigrant experience.

Synopsis: Asher Lev is a Ladover Hasid who keeps kosher, prays three times a day, and believes in the Master of the Universe. He is also an artist compelled to express the world around him, even when it conflicts with his religious upbringing. In this novel, Chaim Potok explores Asher’s struggle to reconcile his faith with his artistic passion. Growing up in a close-knit Hasidic community in postwar Brooklyn, Asher's gift eventually distances him from his family and the traditions he cherishes. "My Name Is Asher Lev" offers a profound portrait of the artist, capturing both the challenges and triumphs of his dual identity.

Synopsis: This haiku collection celebrates the unique joys of staying indoors, blending ancient Zen teachings with Jewish humor. Filled with clever and insightful poems that evoke reactions from "Ah!" to "Oy!", these chai-kus showcase a playful take on life. Each poem, limited to seventeen syllables, offers quick, enjoyable reflections for those seeking a lighthearted read.

Synopsis: A deeply moving novel about a Holocaust survivor grappling with memories of both heroism and shame, and his American-born son's struggle to integrate his father's experiences into his own life.

Synopsis: Gershon Loran, a quiet rabbinical student, is troubled by the dark reality around him. He finds hope in the study of Kabbalah, the Jewish book of mysticism and visions. However, his friend Arthur associates light with the Atom bomb, which his father helped create. Both men seek refuge in a foreign place, hoping for the same thing.

Synopsis: How have the Jews survived through millennia while other civilizations have declined? This book explores the qualities of a culture that produced notable figures like Moses, Christ, Spinoza, Marx, Freud, and Einstein. Max I. Dimont traces the Jewish saga from ancient Palestine through Europe, Asia, America, and modern Israel, illustrating their struggles, contributions, and resilience throughout history.