The Jgirl's Guide

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY MAY 16, 2005

Kol k'vodah bat melekh p'nimah: The true majesty of a royal daughter is inside her. Psalm 45 provides a strong foundation for a wonderful book that, though written for the tween/teen set, has something to offer Jewish women of any age or denomination. The authors emphasize that "in modern terms, this means that to feel great about yourself to feel majestic even you need to listen to your inner self." Using a combination of Jewish resources, secular psychology and a wealth of input from Jewish girls and women, this guide covers the waterfront from teenage issues of self-image, gossip, friendship and sex to more singularly Jewish issues such as the Sabbath, religious studies and the tradition of tikkun olam (repairing the world). Each chapter includes a lesson on a particular mitzvah; a variety of activities, from journal questions to suggested plans of action; introductions to famous Jewish women; and observations from everyday Jewish girls. Perfect for a young woman about to embark on preparation for a bas mitzvah, this manual also lends itself to strengthening mother/ daughter relationships, solidifying the bonds between Jewish girls coming of age, and reminding Jewish women of any age of the special people they are, both as individuals and as Jews.