Like many Jewish Americans; Elizabeth Ehrlich was ambivalent about her background. She identified with Jewish cultural attitudes; but not with the institutions; she had fond memories of her Jewish grandmothers; but she found their religious practices irrelevant to her life. It wasn?t until she entered the kitchen--and world--of her mother-in-law; Miriam; a Holocaust survivor; that Ehrlich began to understand the importance of preserving the traditions of the past. As Ehrlich looks on; Miriam methodically and lovingly prepares countless kosher meals while relating the often painful stories of her life in Poland and her immigration to America. These stories trigger a kind of religious awakening in Ehrlich; who--as she moves tentatively toward reclaiming the heritage she rejected as a young woman--gains a new appreciation of life?s possibilities; choices; and limitations.
#466539 in Books 1998-09-01 1998-09-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.00 x .90 x 5.30l; .74 #File Name: 014026759X384 pages
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. A Must Read For Both Jews Non-JewsBy LisaA beautifully written memoir about Mrs.Ehrlich's mother-in-law; Miriam that is centered around the theme of the Jewish family. After reading it I came away with a better appreciation of why many Jewish people keep Kosher and how it is meaningful to them.I owned this book several years ago and after completing it donated the volume to a used book sale for charity. This latest copy was purchased a gift for a dear friend who I am sure will enjoy it as much as I did.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Many Opportunities For DiscussionBy IthacaNancyThis book was discussed in my book group. I only read about 15% of the book; though since I had a used copy; I was able to read the areas that had been highlighted and commented on by the previous reader (who seems quite thoughtful). The book is almost twenty years old now; and my book group wondered how anyone would manage to keep a kosher household when working full time and living in an isolated nuclear family (as most of us do). Recognizing the value of ritual and tradition; we also questioned the cost (not just financial) of rituals developed in different times. As a foodie and someone who cooks almost every meal from scratch; I can appreciate the work involved! In a community; I can see this could be possible; but the division of labor seems questionable in today's society.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. "They served me emotion and substance on a dairy plate." ~ Elizabeth EhrlichBy JenniferMy words can't do Elizabeth Ehrlich's justice but I will try. This is a great; uplifting read for anyone who yearns for a lost connection; regardless of heritage; and for anyone who values the importance of tradition. In our fast paced; always changing world; this is a beautiful reminder of what it means to really BE someone; to reconnect with the family and traditions that make us unique; and to recognize the importance these traditions hold. With the surge in popularity of discovering one's ancestry; whether through records or DNA; I also think this would make a great gift for those beginning their journey of discovery.
