KADDISH

The Kaddish is a Jewish prayer recited during mourning. The author, a secularized Jew, came to find comfort in it after his father's death. He then proceeded to "look it up" and to reflect on its curious power--which examinations he details in this book. It is written for educated American Jews who are seeking to connect with religious traditions they have neglected and about which they know next to nothing. Actor and singer Theodore Bikel, himself steeped in this culture, delivers this lesson in conversational, friendly, measured tones, striving for clarity and intimacy, and achieving authority without having to try. Y.R. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 02]