Celia Gurevitch Jewish Community Library

Kaplan-Mayer, Gabrielle. The Creative Jewish Wedding Book. 2d ed.; a Hands-on Guide to New and Old Traditions, Ceremonies & Celebrations. Woodstock , VT : Jewish Lights,
2009. paperbound. 261p., illus. $19.99 (ISBN-13: 978-1580233989).

This is a very complete overview of the many varieties of Jewish weddings, from orthodox to barely religious, from traditionally Jewish to marriage of two people belonging to different faiths, but also not shying away from marriage between two persons of the same sex. Traditions and customs are explained, writing your own texts for wedding rituals is encouraged.  Altogether the author empowers the marrying couple to decide what style of wedding is best for them and their family situation. A step-by-step plan facilitates what could be a daunting process. Choice of foods, music, chuppah, decorations are discussed in detail, with many suggestions included. Besides the general index, the book includes a14 page list of websites and (how old-fashioned!) a 4 page bibliography for further study. This title should be a welcome addition to your collection as a very practical and up-to-date guide to this important life-cycle event.

Susanne M. Batzdorff, Celia Gurevitch Jewish Community Library, Congregation Beth Ami, Santa Rosa , CA