Happy Minyan

I've been in LA for the holidays, immersing myself in the sounds of Yehuda Solomon, of Moshav Band fame, leading services at the Happy Minyan.

Yehuda's davening is so what-else-can-you-say-but-gevalt! The rebbe in residence, Emmy-award winning screen writer, David Sacks, shares the sweetest Torahs and the dancing and the singing are so high, you can mamash feel the holiday in your body AND your soul. The joy is palpable. If you get a chance to get Happy next time you're in LA, check out HappyMinyan.org.

Meanwhile, Cool Jew marches on... I'm invited to speak at the huge book event at American Jewish University on Nov. 9th. Check back for details. And this fun review just got posted at Bookopolis! Hey thanks so much, Sheri!

Upon first glance, “Cool Jew” may seem to you like a humorous parody for entertainment purposes. And, you’d be right. However, amongst the cheeky writing and amusing games, there happens to also be a lot of handy and educational information. For example, there are sections outlining each major Judaica item, such as the Kiddush cup and the Chanukah menorah. Also, you can find a detailed description of traditional foods associated with each Jewish holiday (because food is after all, very important in Judaism!) and explanations of the various head coverings worn for men and women. Look out for interesting historical information and tidbits on famous Jews, as well.

The humor ranges from the witty to the outrageous. There are definitely sections of the book that have the potential to offend the more devout among us but that is exactly why some of the content shouldn’t be taken too seriously. It is all in good fun and Klug, being a proud member of the Jewish faith herself, would not intentionally insult anyone. Some ideas however, may not be for the faint of heart, such as the idea to take yarmulkes/kippas (Jewish head covering) and “sew leather shoelaces on a matching leather pair to create a sexy string bikini top”. Talk about risqué religious humor!

Funny highlights include:- Letterman-like Top Ten lists- ‘Recycle, Reuse, Reschmooze’ sections that offer other uses for common Jewish objects- ‘FYI for the Yiddish impaired’Other great features are the hilarious and sometimes wacky drawings, photographs and comics located throughout the book.

On the cover of the book is says that the book is not just for Jews, which is absolutely true. Non-Jews may not understand all of the humor, but it would probably a very enjoyable way to learn more about another religion and pick up the ‘Jewish slang’!“Cool Jew” is a fun read and especially recommended as great entertainment when read with friends and family (which I did, and it really is!)

For more info visit the COOL JEW website.

Check out if the Cool Jew book tour is coming to a town near you!