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  <id>75508</id>
  <title><![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]></title>
  <isbn><![CDATA[0805210954]]></isbn>
  <isbn13><![CDATA[9780805210958]]></isbn13>
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  <description><![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]></description>
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  <original_publication_year type="integer">1997</original_publication_year>
  <original_title>Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends</original_title>
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  <average_rating><![CDATA[3.91]]></average_rating>
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    <author>
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        <name><![CDATA[Anita Diamant]]></name>
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    <average_rating>4.05</average_rating>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
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  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
  <votes>1</votes>
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  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Sun Mar 22 00:00:00 -0700 2009</read_at>
  <date_added>Sun Mar 22 12:03:23 -0700 2009</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sun Mar 22 12:11:04 -0700 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[This was my first Jewish related book that I read. The reason why it interested me is because a friend of mine is Jewish. I tend to read up on what other people are, in order for me to better understand certain aspects (thus is why I have a couple of Mormon books in my already-read list).<br/><br/>...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/50073334">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/50073334]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/50073334]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>3902442</id>
    <user>
    <id>243492</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Katie]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Brooklyn, NY]]></location>
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  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
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  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
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  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>3</rating>
  <votes>1</votes>
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  <read_at></read_at>
  <date_added>Wed Aug 01 08:13:13 -0700 2007</date_added>
  <date_updated>Thu Dec 17 03:11:42 -0800 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[this book had too narrow a mindset about the reasons for converting to judiasm. it could have been an essay, rather than a book, for the density of info it offered. still, i like the fact that it sells judaism as a practice rather than a faith. ]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3902442]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/3902442]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>28213129</id>
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    <id>1178748</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Ibrahim]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Knightdale, NC]]></location>
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  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
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  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>5</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
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  <recommended_for><![CDATA[everybody! ]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Sun Sep 07 11:11:18 -0700 2008</read_at>
  <date_added>Thu Jul 24 17:53:38 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sun Sep 07 11:11:18 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[The author is a real person and when you read her book you can't help but fall in love with her and her Judaism. She is distinguishably brilliant and has a charming good sense of humor. I have always needed a book like that to tell me where to start if I am contemplating the &quot;choosing&quot; of ...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/28213129">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/28213129]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/28213129]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>61820916</id>
    <user>
    <id>1354787</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Linda]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Dodge Center, MN]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1354787-linda]]></link>
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  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
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  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
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  <read_at></read_at>
  <date_added>Wed Jul 01 16:59:45 -0700 2009</date_added>
  <date_updated>Wed Jul 01 17:02:16 -0700 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Has become kind of a necessity to learn more about the Jewish faith.  Very interesting.  the author also wrote the novel &quot;The Red Tent&quot; (5 stars) and has several more about the Jewish life and traditions.  I suspect I will be reading more.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/61820916]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/61820916]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>75387290</id>
    <user>
    <id>81374</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Lauren]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Washington, DC]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/81374-lauren]]></link>
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  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>3</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
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  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Thu Oct 22 00:00:00 -0700 2009</read_at>
  <date_added>Thu Oct 22 11:25:56 -0700 2009</date_added>
  <date_updated>Thu Oct 22 11:27:59 -0700 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Most helpful for folks interested in reform/re-constructionist Judaism.  Also a really great primer on Judaism in general; I won't feel so out of the loop at Josh's family holiday gatherings anymore.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/75387290]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/75387290]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>39643993</id>
    <user>
    <id>1351359</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Lesley]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Evanston, IL]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1351359-lesley]]></link>
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  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
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            <shelf name="it-changed-my-life" />
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  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at></read_at>
  <date_added>Mon Dec 08 17:56:40 -0800 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Mon Dec 08 17:57:21 -0800 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[I read a lot of books on Judaism when I was planning to convert, but this was by far the best.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/39643993]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/39643993]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>42668563</id>
    <user>
    <id>1894335</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Lacy]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Las Vegas, NV]]></location>
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  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
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  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
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  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
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  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Sat Mar 01 00:00:00 -0800 2008</read_at>
  <date_added>Sun Jan 11 07:55:18 -0800 2009</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sun Jan 11 07:55:47 -0800 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[I like this author best out of all my Jewish study books.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/42668563]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/42668563]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>22171095</id>
    <user>
    <id>953417</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Julie]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[South Jordan, UT]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/953417-julie]]></link>
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  <id type="integer">75508</id>
  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
  <shelves>
        <shelf name="read" />
            <shelf name="jewish-reading" />
      </shelves>
  <recommended_for><![CDATA[Individuals sincerely interested in converting to Judiasm]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Tue May 13 00:00:00 -0700 2008</read_at>
  <date_added>Tue May 13 13:31:03 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Wed May 14 05:27:03 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Although this book is listed for individuals interested in converting to Judiasm as well as their family, friends, etc.  The book would only make sense if you have a basic understanding of Judiasm in the first place.  Best to read another book about the basics and then tackle this book.  I appreciat...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/22171095">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/22171095]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/22171095]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>6553018</id>
    <user>
    <id>262883</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Erinn]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Englewood, NJ]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/262883-erinn]]></link>
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  <id type="integer">75508</id>
  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>5</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
  <shelves>
        <shelf name="read" />
            <shelf name="judaism" />
      </shelves>
  <recommended_for><![CDATA[Anyone converting or who knows someone who is]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Wed Jan 09 06:37:34 -0800 2008</read_at>
  <date_added>Fri Sep 21 10:28:41 -0700 2007</date_added>
  <date_updated>Wed Jan 09 06:35:20 -0800 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[I read this book as part of my conversion process. It pretty much answered all my questions regarding the process of converting, the ambiguity surrounding 'who is Jewish?', converting children, dealing with friends and family, and being naked in the mikvah (which I was a little nervous about). I rec...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6553018">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6553018]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6553018]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>18444465</id>
    <user>
    <id>1016696</id>
    <name><![CDATA[KaraAnne]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Seattle, WA]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1016696-karaanne]]></link>
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  <id type="integer">75508</id>
  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
  <shelves>
        <shelf name="read" />
          </shelves>
  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Mon Jan 01 00:00:00 -0800 2001</read_at>
  <date_added>Sun Mar 23 11:26:17 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Sun Mar 23 11:38:01 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[This was one of the first books I read after meeting my (now) husband.  Before getting too deep into a relationship with him, I wanted an idea of what it might be like should we decide to marry.  It was very helpful for me, and helped me realize that choosing to be Jewish was something I wanted/need...<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/18444465">more...</a>]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/18444465]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/18444465]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>40907991</id>
    <user>
    <id>139842</id>
    <name><![CDATA[sarah]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Washington, DC]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/139842-sarah]]></link>
    <image_url><![CDATA[http://photo.goodreads.com/users/1182277154p3/139842.jpg]]></image_url>
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  <id type="integer">75508</id>
  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>3</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
  <shelves>
        <shelf name="read" />
          </shelves>
  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at>Wed Mar 18 00:00:00 -0700 2009</read_at>
  <date_added>Thu Dec 25 20:16:08 -0800 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Wed Mar 18 08:25:53 -0700 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[I wish I could give 1/2 stars because I would have given it a solid 3.5. It was very well written and constructed, I just wanted a little more content and detail. However it makes a good overview and reference to find more information on specific topics. ]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/40907991]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/40907991]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>15181703</id>
    <user>
    <id>886662</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Kelly]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Atlanta, GA]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/886662-kelly]]></link>
    <image_url><![CDATA[http://photo.goodreads.com/users/1202439027p3/886662.jpg]]></image_url>
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  <id type="integer">75508</id>
  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
  <shelves>
        <shelf name="read" />
            <shelf name="jewish" />
      </shelves>
  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at></read_at>
  <date_added>Mon Feb 11 15:32:43 -0800 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Tue Feb 19 17:59:21 -0800 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Anita Diamant manages to write a book about Judaism that is easy to read and understand...a must have for converts.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/15181703]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/15181703]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>21484084</id>
    <user>
    <id>1135124</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Jennifer]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Boise, ID]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1135124-jennifer]]></link>
    <image_url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/images/nophoto-F-111x148.jpg]]></image_url>
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  <id type="integer">75508</id>
  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
  <shelves>
        <shelf name="read" />
          </shelves>
  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at></read_at>
  <date_added>Fri May 02 16:16:24 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Fri May 02 16:17:17 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[Indispensible for my conversion process...I still pick it up every now and again, it inspires me.]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/21484084]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/21484084]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>32443215</id>
    <user>
    <id>1511591</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Jennifer]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Wichita, KS]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1511591-jennifer-moore]]></link>
    <image_url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/images/nophoto-F-111x148.jpg]]></image_url>
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    <book>
  <id type="integer">75508</id>
  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>4</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
  <shelves>
        <shelf name="read" />
          </shelves>
  <recommended_for><![CDATA[poeple considering conversion]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at></read_at>
  <date_added>Tue Sep 09 10:33:44 -0700 2008</date_added>
  <date_updated>Tue Sep 09 10:34:08 -0700 2008</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[obviously not for everyone, but this really helped me on my jewish path]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/32443215]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/32443215]]></link>
</review>
      <review>
  <id>81877992</id>
    <user>
    <id>3069484</id>
    <name><![CDATA[Cheryl]]></name>
    <location><![CDATA[Brooklyn, NY]]></location>
    <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3069484-cheryl-b]]></link>
    <image_url><![CDATA[http://photo.goodreads.com/users/1261603051p3/3069484.jpg]]></image_url>
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  <isbn>0805210954</isbn>
  <isbn13>9780805210958</isbn13>
  <text_reviews_count type="integer">14</text_reviews_count>
  <title>
    <![CDATA[Choosing a Jewish Life: A Handbook for People Converting to Judaism and for Their Family and Friends]]>
  </title>
  <image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670m/75508.jpg</image_url>
  <small_image_url>http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1170876670s/75508.jpg</small_image_url>
  <link>http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/75508.Choosing_a_Jewish_Life_A_Handbook_for_People_Converting_to_Judaism_and_for_Their_Family_and_Friends</link>
  <average_rating>3.91</average_rating>
  <ratings_count>124</ratings_count>
  <description>
    <![CDATA[Married to a convert herself, Anita Diamant provides advice and information that can transform the act of conversion into an extraordinary journey of self-discovery and spiritual growth.<br/><br/>Here you will learn how to choose a rabbi, a synagogue, a denomination, a Hebrew name; how to handle the difficulty of putting aside Christmas; what happens at the mikvah (ritual bath) or at a hatafat dam brit (circumcision ritual for those already circumcised); how to find your footing in a new spiritual family that is not always well prepared to receive you; and how not to lose your bonds to your family of origin. Diamant anticipates all the questions, doubts, and concerns, and provides a comprehensive explanation of the rules and rituals of conversion.]]>
  </description>
  <published>1997</published>
</book>

    <rating>3</rating>
  <votes>0</votes>
  <spoiler_flag>false</spoiler_flag>
  <shelves>
        <shelf name="read" />
          </shelves>
  <recommended_for><![CDATA[]]></recommended_for>
  <recommended_by><![CDATA[]]></recommended_by>
  <read_at></read_at>
  <date_added>Wed Dec 23 12:57:34 -0800 2009</date_added>
  <date_updated>Wed Dec 23 12:57:34 -0800 2009</date_updated>
  <read_count></read_count>
    <body><![CDATA[]]></body>
    
  <url><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/81877992]]></url>
  <link><![CDATA[http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/81877992]]></link>
</review>
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