Understanding Jewish History (1)

Records the many stories of the journey of the Jewish people through history

Grade 7 Up. This survey of Jewish history from the emergence of the first Hebrews, perhaps 4000 years ago (2,000 B.C.E.) to their expulsion from Ferdinand and Isabella's Spain in 1492, encompasses much geography and highly diverse religious and cultural experiences. The author writes as a practicing Jew. His perspective is traditional when dealing with events that some may consider legendary, mythical, or folkloric. Yet, he is not didactic. He allows that chronology may be inexact and uses phrases such as "according to the Bible," "the Bible relates," "the Bible tells how," and "according to tradition." Both text and highlighted time-line sections place Jewish history within the framework of broader world events. The full-color illustrations add information and are superb in quality. They include reproductions of paintings, sculpture, mosaics, inscriptions, engravings, coins, and photographs of archaeological sites. This comprehensive volume represents an impressive achievement. Scharfstein's respect for the intelligence of his audience and for his subject elevate this book above most surveys of religion.?Libby K. White, Schenectady County Public Library, NY
Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Gr. 6^-9. The title implies a textbook sound, and in some ways that is not so far from the truth. The book is a straightforward history, beginning in biblical times and ending with the expulsion of the Jews from Spain in the fifteenth century. But unlike some textbooks, this is handsomely illustrated with photos, maps, and reproductions on almost every page. Libraries needing an attractive, inclusive, and easily digestible history of the Jewish people will find that this will suit their needs. Ilene Cooper