Here are some great books for everybody, Jewish or not.
I really, really love Doesn’t Anyone Blush Anymore, Rabbi Manis Friedman(1996). Bob Dylan also loves this book, as you can see his comment on the cover. Rabbi Friedman is certainly among the great thinkers of this generation, and this book is essential reading if you are interested in a happy marriage and family life (or if you are single and want to find happiness)
The Committed Life by Rebbetzin Esther Jungreis (HarperSanFrancisco, 1999). I read this book when it was first published, and it had an immediate effect on my way of thinking about Judaism and modern society. Esther Jungreis, a Holocaust survivor, rebuilt her life from the ashes of Bergen Belsen, and has written many books on core Jewish values with insights culled from the Torah and her experiences.
Towards a Meaningful Life By Rabbi Simon Jacobson (HarperCollins 2004). If you read my blogs, you probably notice that I mention the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneersohn, quite often. He revolutionized Jewish thinking in a way few have in recent times, and his followers, including Rabbi Simon Jacobson, do a great service to humanity by spreading his wisdom throughout the world. See what the Rebbe has to say about all aspects of life, and you will not wonder why there are many people who believe that he is the messiah.
Return to Modesty by Wendy Shalit (1998). I first heard about this book a couple of years before I became religious, and it really changed my point of view about modesty. Shalit discusses her encounter with “modestyniks” in college. These were Orthodox girls who wouldn’t wear short skirts or jeans, and while she intially regarded them with derision, she eventually came to the conclusion that modesty is the new form of feminism and the best way to protect a woman’s dignity. A great eye opener.
How to Run a Traditional Jewish Household by Blu Greenberg (Fireside 1985). Learn from a real balabuss (Yiddishe mama and household commando) how to do it. I love the way she throws in insight and anecdote along with practical advice on how to manage a Jewish home and to celebrate the holidays. Reading this book, you will discover why the home is more central to Jewish life than the synagogue.
Jewish Literacy By Joseph Telushkin (William Morrow 1991)Rabbi Telushkin compiles countless facts in this large volume which is as engaging to read as it is informative. He spans a range of topics, including Jewish history, observance, Jewish culture and important figures. An essential and enjoyable encyclopedia for every Jewish home.
Jewish Values Rabbi Joseph Telushkin (William Morrow 2000)Explore a new Jewish value every day with Rabbi Telushkin. He makes Jewish ethics comprehensible to every reader and helps bring important concepts to everday life.
Related: Kosher Reading