Book excerpt: For centuries, the mikvah, or ritual bath, has been used by married Jewish women for spiritual purification. For reasons of modesty, going to the mikvah is considered a private act that is to be performed discreetly at night. Because of this, women who use the mikvah typically don't discuss their mikvah experiences, which may be humorous or even inspiring. This book presents a collection of true stories from women who use the mikvah. Read about the mikvah attendant who fancied herself an opera singer. Laugh along with the newlywed who ends up at the mikvah at the same time as her mother-in-law (awkward!). Journey to the Indian Ocean with the woman who took a very cold dunk in the Indian Ocean as she battled swimmers, surfers, and fishermen. Just when you thought it was safe to go into the mikvah...