Book excerpt: The First Jewish Catalog is an exciting collection of far-ranging topics that should aid any Jew - whether steeped in the tradition or just discovering Judaism - to become personally involved in aspects of Jewish ritual life, customs, cooking, crafts, and creation. What makes The First Jewish Catalog different from any other Jewish reference book you have ever read is that in this book the emphasis is not only on knowledge or theory but on the pratical side of things as well. Frequently lighthearted, the material is presented with a love and honesty that make this book a joy to read.