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Gershom's Book Shop:
Basic Judaism and Conversion Section

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The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Judaism

By Rabbi Blech (Yeshiva University.) Of course, this book isn't really for idiots! It uses the familiar "Idiot's" series format to explain the basics in very user-friendly language. Brand new in 1999, it fills the important need for a Judaism 101 book that is non-threatening and even uses some humor! Explainsd basic Jewsih cutoms,. holidays, the synagogue service, etc. A good intro for non-Jews who are curious, or Jews who want to brush-up.
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The Bible For The Clueless But Curious:
Finally, A Guide To Jewish Wisdom For Real People

By Rabbi Nahum Braverman. This is really a sort of "Bible for Dummies" book -- with a clearly Jewish approach. Rabbi Braveman translates potions of the Bible into plain English, then gives Jewish perspectives on how it is applied in daily life. A great intro book for Jews who want to learn, but feel intimidated by archaic translations or overly-intellectualized Bible commentaries. Also good for non-Jews who want to get a feel for how Jews relate to the Bible. Click here to order ...

These are the Words: A vocabulary of Jewish Spiritual Life -- much more than just another lexicon, these insightful essays by Arthur Green will give you the feel for 149 basic terms that every student of Judaism needs to understand the spiritual dimensions of Judaism.

The Nine Questions People Ask About Judaism by Dennis Prager and Joseph Telushkin. Written for the educated, skeptical, searching Jew, and for the non-Jew who wants to understand the meaning of Judaism, this thought-provoking book has become a widely-read introduction to the oldest living religion, consisely and engagingly presenting Judaism as the rational, moral alternative for contemporary man. Click here to order ...

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Embracing the Covenant:
Converts to Judaism talk about Why and How

Both those who have already converted as well as those contemplating the decision will find valuable guidance here. In this book are the personal stories of over 50 people who have chosen to convert to Judaism -- why they did it, their joys, their struggles, and their hearfelt advice to others contemplating the same step. Click here for to order

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Becoming a Jew

By Maurice Lamm (Orthodox). This book has been called the definitive text for converting to Judaism, and has received excellent reviews by converts and potential converts, as well as the rabbis who are teaching them. Rabbi Lamm does an excellent job of balancing the commitment to halachah (Jewish law) with sensitivity to the feelings and experiences of people seeking to become Jews.
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Choosing a Jewish Life: A handbook for people converting to Judaism and for their family and friends by Anita Diamant (Reform). This book is exactly what it says -- a step-by-step handbook for potential converts. Although it is written from a non-Orthodox standpoint in places, it is a good starting point for somebody who is considering conversion to Judaism, and wants to explore the issues. Click here to order

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Gates of Shabbat

This very introductory book, put out by UAHC (Reform movement) is good for the absolute beginner who wants to explore his or her personal issues about introducing Sabbath observance into the home. It has clear how-to directions for the home rituals and quite a bit of background about the "whys" of the ceremonies in user-friendly language with gender-neutral translations.
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How to Run a Traditional Jewish Household

By Blu Greenberg. OK, so you want to make your home more Jewish, but where do you start? What do you do? How do you do it? This book, written by one of the most popular Orthodox feminist (no, that's not an oxymoron!) writers of today, tells you how, in a style that is open to questions, sharing of personal struggles, and down-to-earth practical with ideas and info.

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Home references by Rabbi Donin

Rabbi Hayim Halevy Donin's classic works are still among the best quick references for how-to questions about living a Jewish life. Written from a Modern Orthodox standpoint, they are helpful to Jews from all backgrounds:

To be a Jew is a basic home reference for keeping a Jewish home and kitchen, observing the holidays, and life-cycle events.

To Pray as a Jew clearly explains the prayerbook and synagogue services.

To Raise a Jewish Child: A Guide for Parents clearly addresses issues of Jewish education in school and at home, instilling Jewish knowledge and values in your children, etc.

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