#18 - Synagogue Life

This book is a study of the functionings of an modern Orthodox synagogue. It is very interesting, yet dense. My interest in communal prayer ritual led to a recommendation of this book by my adviser. Heilman, an Orthodox Jew himself, writes about his community with respect and a certain amount of detachment. The book is highly interesting, but I would only recommend going out of your way to read it if you already share interest in one of the many subjects covered therein, which range from the functions of the gabbai to the social implications of gossip.