“This book gave me a new understanding of religion. How it rules the lives of those who believe. Auslander lives in a world of fear, fear of crossing god and gods retribution. He is ruled by it as much as he struggles against it. He makes it funny but it is sad. It is sad to have to live in fear of something that can't even be proven to exist He is a great writer with great insight but he can't, no matter how hard he tries rid himself of fear. It rules him. Every religious person should be forced to read this so they can see the folly of their beliefs ”
“Interesting to read other reviews. I did like the writer's style at times when he was a bit less emotional. I'm wondering how he will feel in time. I think he's very lucky to have married the woman he did. ”
“Did anyone else read this one and feel as I did?Bonnie”
“I read this book after hearing Auslander read some excerpts from it on NPR. I enjoyed his humor, but the book became increasingly painful to read. He is a brilliant writer, but the abuse, particularly the self-inflicted abuse, overshadowed the humor by the end. I am Jewish, but the extreme form of Judaism Auslander was raised with is nothing I recognize. His family of origin's so called "Judaism" seems nothing but a never ending set of nitpicking rules and rituals adhered to only out of fear. Very sad. Overall, the book is a worthwhile read for the sharp and witty writing. But be prepared for the darkness and a fearful, angry, downright twisted form of Judaism that is not representative of the vibrant and joyous spiritual practice Judaism can and should be. ”
