The Jewish Pregnancy Book

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY NOV 24, 2003

Anyone who's experienced childbirth understands that it may indeed seem a "world... about to be remade... heralded by a great flood." Now imagine embarking on the journey around a holiday table replete with family, friends, piles of food and stories long into the night. Warm and inviting, this Jewish guide to pregnancy and the first three months of life is a beautiful balance not only of soul, mind and body, but of ancient texts and contemporary prayer, folklore and modern medicine. Balanced also are the wide-ranging positions held by the Orthodox, Conservative and Reform movements on topics such as ensoulment, prenatal testing, selective reduction and mourning rituals in the event of miscarriage or fetal death. (While the authors celebrate this time in a couple's life, they are compassionately mindful and honest about the possibility of a less joyful outcome.) For each stage of pregnancy and beyond, they offer meditations, prayers and resources for any number of things that could transpire. Despite an abrupt transition, the book's yoga portion is enticing. Rapp makes yoga seem accessible to anyone, from seasoned marathoners to couch potatoes. Clear instructions, accompanied by photos for both early- and late-stage pregnancy, come with equally clear warnings about who should attempt which positions when. Though nurturing throughout, the book lacks any sort of conclusion, leaving the reader suddenly feeling like a favorite uncle has sneaked out the back door without saying goodbye. Although disappointing, ultimately this omission detracts very little from a delightful and spiritual celebration of life's beginnings.