Jewish as a Second Language: How to Worry, How to Interrupt, How to Say the Opposite of What You Mean

I don’t personally know anyone who is a practicing Jew, so my opinion of Molly Katz’s Jewish as a Second Language may not mean much. I can say that Katz is supremely funny, ranging from smile to laugh out loud. Under the guise of helping those who marry into a Jewish family, she takes us through a wide range of situations, relating what to expect, what to say, and what to do. At times, I was reminded of the stereotypical New York Jews portrayed in movie comedies, but whether this is pure satire or just a funny way to explain Jews, I haven’t a clue. I suspect that it is little of both. The satire comes through loud and clear. But, in fact, I, as a non-Jew, saw myself and my family and friends in her stereotypes. That leads me to believe there is a lot of truth in Katz’s writing. And her truth lends itself to all of us.

Wonderful read my Rabbi enjoyed reading and sharing with our congregation.

Great read. Very funny. Great gift for ANYONE Jewish who could use a good laugh - THAT'S everybody right now, RIGHT!?! ALSO could make a thought provoking fun, informative gift for SOMEONE OUTSIDE the Jewish community or Faith, a blended couple or to the new 'Outlaw ~~ In-laws' who may not know anything about Jewish culture. It may be a funny way to save them YEARS of stepping in 😳 because they had NO CLUE! 👍Would Recommend. 👍Would reorder.

Molly Katz exaggerates, of course, since that's a good basis for humor. She had Jews criticizing the quality of their orders of shellfish too often to suit me and my friends, but it was worth the price, and a fun read the couple hours it lasted me.

Reading this book was one of the few things that got my mother through the pandemic. The humorous observations are true to life and as relatable as they are hilarious. I even used this book when preparing to marry my (non-Jewish) husband so he could know what to expect from my relatives.

Omgosh, I don't even know where to begin to express how much I adore this book! It is the absolute most riotous book EVER! I so love it and have to refrain from reading it in bed with my husband for the simple reason that I have kept him up ALL night ***cackling*** up a storm in bed when he is trying to fall asleep! So now I read it when I'm on long lines at the post office, etc, or just when I want to laugh my tuchus off, lol. It is incredible though how much you realize about yourself, your friends and especially your family when you see that their once thought eccentricities/quirks/idiosyncrasies are inherent to your yiddishkeit roots. I have purchased this book as gifts and without question, I could read this delightful and wonderfully enjoyable book over and over and OVER again and AGAIN!.....I love you, Molly Katz!!!!! Thanks so much for all the laughs and great memories from reading this with my husband, family and friends!

I wasn't aware that it was a joke book. I teach Jewish Bible history to my church group. Expected help with Jewish language. A disappointment to me. If you want Jewish jokes about their language this is the book for you.

I've purchased this book for three relatives and they've all enjoyed it. Just the kind of thing we need to lift our spirits.

It is funny and well it sure brings back memories of yesteryear, and helps me feel better knowing it is okay to say PUTZ.

A fantastic, witty work that'll entertain all.

I'm Jewish. My boyfriend isn't. So I thought this book would be an ideal way for him to understand me a little better. Me and my myriad neuroses. We took it on holiday with us and laughed and laughed and laughed. "I understand you a lot better now," he said by the end of it. If you're Jewish or not, or know someone who is or are friends with someone who is, do buy this book. You will love it. It's one of the funniest books I've ever read. My favourite line is about how most Jewish ceremonies are centred on food and our enemies trying to eliminate us: "They tried to kill us. They failed. Let's eat." BUY THIS BOOK!!!

So, who wouldn’t want to read such an engaging and funny book?? Buy it, read it, amuse your friends with your knowledge and humour. Don’t worry - what’s not to love?

Good book, good seller.