http://www.bostonbibliophile.com/2008/11/review-crafting-jewish-by-rivky-koenig.... ( )

In a nutshell: This is an absolutely beautiful book from cover to cover, the recipes, crafts and pictures are stunning! While all the items within the book are geared toward a Kosher kitchen and Jewish holidays, most of the craft projects can be changed a little (if needed) to fit into any theme or holiday! This wonderful book has some scrumptious recipes, kids crafts and elegant crafts for adults within each holiday section. With easy-to-follow instructions and beautiful full-color pictures, this book would be a great addition to your bookshelf, or would make a great hostess gift!

My Review:
The pictures above are very pretty, and represent some very nice projects from the book, but they are not my favorites! Some of my favorites are the Decoupaged Apple Dish, children's costume accessories, Embellished Picture Frame and the Decorated Mirror. The pictures don't even include any of the recipes such as: Apple-Pear Gallete, One-Bowl Carrot Cake, Chicken Kabobs and Pomegranate Punch.

Content: There are over 120 colorful projects inside this book, with lots of ideas for get-togethers, including lots of recipes! The book includes things for the following Jewish holidays: Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Succot, Chanakah, Tu B'Shevat, Purim, Pesach, Shavout, Shabbat. It also includes a chapter for every-day use. The content is suitable for all ages, although kids should be supervised by an adult.

Format: The book starts with a note to parents, then a note to kids. The author then talks about kosher kitchens, followed by a product and tool guide and then a section for each major Jewish holiday. For each holiday there are plenty of craft projects and recipes.

Readability: Very easy to read, with clear pictures and easily understood instructions. There is even a section for templates! It can't get any easier unless someone else comes and does the work for you. :)

Overall: A wonderful book for adults and children full of Jewish recipes and craft ideas. You don't need to be Jewish to appreciate or use this book - anyone can enjoy this book and make any of the items it contains. I encourage you to pick up a copy and try some great new recipes and crafts for the holidays! ( )

I am not Jewish, but I know books. And this 271-page hardbound book is a good idea! This impressive volume (8 1/2" x 10") is heavy with beautiful, sharp color photography by Jennifer Levy that follows the Jewish year. Each holiday begins its own chapter with an introduction, followed by crafts, and then recipes. Contents are: Product and Tool Guide, Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Succot, Chanukah, Tu B'Shevat, Purim, Pesach, Shavuot, Shabbat, For Every Day, Templates, Resources, and Index. Note: the templates are full-sized and detailed.

I can see this as a perfect gift for a bridal shower, a house warming, or for parents. It's a happy family book. ( )